ESA inaugurates new deep space antenna in Australia

The European Space Agency has inaugurated a new deep space antenna in Australia as part of efforts to strengthen ties between Europe and Australia in space.

At an Oct. 4 event in New Norcia, Western Australia, ESA marked the completion of a new 35-meter antenna for communicating with spacecraft throughout the solar system. The antenna is the second at New Norcia and the fourth in ESA’s Estrack network worldwide.

The antenna, called New Norcia 3, will support communications with ESA spacecraft once it begins operations, expected next March. It includes upgrades such as cryocooling of the receiver to reduce noise and increase sensitivity.

spacenews.com