The researchers from the Laboratory for Advanced Mechatronics - LAMA FVG - at the University of Udine, together with Picosats srl, have successfully completed an advanced research project aimed at creating a 3D-printed satellite antenna using Laser Based - Powder Bed Fusion (LB-PBF). This project focused on optimizing both the product and the manufacturing process, with the goal of achieving a simplified structure to enhance sustainability at each stage of the antenna’s lifecycle: from production to launch, from operation to decommissioning.
The research led to significant reductions in material consumption, production costs, and, above all, launch costs, thanks to the antenna’s reduced mass and size. The simplified structure also eliminated the need for post-processing and minimized the risk of component disassembly or misalignment in space, where maintenance is not possible.
Ground tests confirmed the product’s excellent functionality, and some of the printed components were successfully launched into sun-synchronous orbit on SpaceX’s Transporter 9 mission, where they remain fully operational. Building on this success, the team has entered a second phase of research, focusing on enhancing the antenna’s functionality by exploring innovative designs unrestricted by conventional manufacturing constraints.
This important achievement underscores the value of cross-sector collaboration in applied research, demonstrating how strong synergy between startups and Universities can drive innovation and growth. The combination of academic and entrepreneurial expertise within the dynamic, cohesive regional ecosystem of Friuli Venezia Giulia opens up new perspectives for developing increasingly advanced, innovative, and sustainable solutions.
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