Quartz Oscillators for Space Systems

Quartz crystal oscillators play a critical role in the performance and reliability of space and satellite systems. In this episode of Frequency Matters, Jenn DiMarco and Tim Rainear talk with Mike Sawicki of Wenzel Associates about the challenges of designing and qualifying quartz oscillators for space applications, including frequency stability, phase noise, radiation, temperature, vibration and long-term reliability. They also discuss where quartz technology fits alongside MEMS and atomic frequency references and what’s next for frequency control in space.