Wireless bus leading to more proficient satellites.

• Author: Williams, Robert H.
• Position: TECH TALK: A TIP-SHEET ON THE LATEST GADGETS

* Northrop Grumman Corp. of Redondo Beach, Calif., is developing a wireless spacecraft bus for the Air Force that could lead to less expensive and lighter satellites. The radiation hardened bus serves as an electrical interface between onboard equipment and payloads.

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It will cut the "extensive touch labor, risks and complexities that are associated with integrating heavy, copper wire harnesses," notes John Brock, a Northrop executive. He adds that the wireless...