ESA Tests the Largest Antenna in Hertz Radio Frequency Test Chamber

The Hertz radio frequency test chamber has begun testing the world's largest transponder antenna. It belongs to the European Space Agency (ESA) and has a diameter of 5 m.

The tests take place in a special chamber where vibration and radio interference are avoided. Usually, satellites of 1.5-2 meters in size are tested there.

The antenna will be used to calibrate the BIOMASS mission, which is designed to map all of the Earth's forests. With its help, experts will check how well the signal from the satellite is reflected from the surface.

BIOMASS satellite is going to be put into orbit next year. It is a reflector 12 meters in diameter which will send low-frequency signals to Earth and catch echoes. In this way, it will be able to track every tree on Earth's surface and will do so for five years.

The antenna will be installed in Australia.