Jan-Jul 2022
TeraLink Conceptual Design
The initial conceptual framework for TeraLink is developed, defining the mission’s core objective to demonstrate sub-THz communication links in the 209-240 GHz frequency band for CubeSat platforms. This design phase establishes the technical requirements and system architecture needed to bridge the gap between crowded RF spectrum and complex optical communication systems.
Jun-July 2022
UHF/VHF Ground Station Design
A conventional UHF/VHF ground station is designed and implemented to serve as the baseline communication system for mission operations and telemetry. This traditional frequency infrastructure provides essential training and communication capabilities with existing satellites and enables comparative performance analysis against the terahertz communication link.
Mar 2023
TeraLink selected by the NASA CubeSat Launch Initiative
TeraLink selected by the NASA CubeSat Launch Initiative
NASA’s CubeSat Launch Initiative selects TeraLink as a mission candidate, providing access to a launch opportunity and validating the project’s scientific merit and technical feasibility. This selection represents the first significant milestone for the team.
Jan-Dec 2023
Sub-System Development
The team initiates development of critical TeraLink subsystems, including terahertz transceivers, signal processing units, and antenna arrays optimized for the 209-240 GHz frequency band. This phase focuses on miniaturizing cutting-edge terahertz components to meet stringent CubeSat form factor and power requirements while maintaining high-performance communication capabilities.
Feb 2024
TeraLink selected by the AFRL University NanoSatellite Program – Mission Concept
The Air Force Research Laboratory’s University NanoSatellite Program selects TeraLink for their second Mission Concept Program, providing additional funding and technical support for the mission. Three team members are selected to conduct a Mission Concept internship at the Space Dynamics Laboratory and structure a clear development plan for TeraLink.
May-Aug 2024
Team undergoes UNP Mission Concept at the Space Dynamics Laboratory in Albuquerque
The TeraLink team participates in the University NanoSatellite Program Mission Concept at the Space Dynamics Laboratory, presenting technical design specifications and mission objectives to AFRL evaluators. This milestone demonstrates the project’s readiness to advance from conceptual design to detailed development phases while establishing critical partnerships with space industry professionals. Teralink-Twin and TeraLink-Net missions are envisioned as future evolutions of TeraLink.
Jul 2024
TeraLink selected by the NSF CIRC Program
TeraLink selected by the NSF CIRC Program
The National Science Foundation’s selects TeraLink for its Community Infrastructure for Research in Computer and Information Science and Engineering, recognizing its potential to transform space communication research nationwide. This selection provides substantial funding and research support to accelerate the development and deployment of the sub-THz payload for small spacecraft applications.
Nov 2024
TeraLink selected by the AFRL University NanoSatellite Program – NS12
The Air Force Research Laboratory formally selects TeraLink as part of its NanoSatellite12 development cycle, marking the transition from mission concept to full development program with dedicated funding and technical oversight. This selection establishes TeraLink as a priority demonstration mission for advancing terahertz communication capabilities in space-based platforms.
Jan 2025
Team attends UNP-NS12 Kick-Off at NASA Kennedy Space Center!
The TeraLink team participates in the official UNP-NS12 program kick-off at NASA Kennedy Space Center, launching the formal development phase with program managers and technical advisors. This milestone event establishes project timelines, deliverables, and coordination protocols.
Jan 2025
Team Explores Potential Ground Station Sites on Campus
Team Explores Potential Ground Station Sites on Campus
The team conducts site surveys across campus to identify optimal locations for the TeraLink ground station, evaluating factors such as electromagnetic interference, accessibility, and line-of-sight requirements for sub-THz communication. This assessment ensures the ground infrastructure can effectively support high-frequency terahertz links while minimizing environmental obstacles to signal propagation.
Jan – Aug 2025
Payload Sub-System Design and Prototype testing
Late 2027
