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GaN-based Power Amplification Unit for the Europa Clipper Mission
The Radar for Europa Assessment and Sounding: Ocean to Near-surface (REASON) is a dual-frequency ice-penetrating radar (9 and 60 MHz) onboard NASA's Europa Clipper mission that was launched in October 2024. The radar transmitter utlizes GaN power amplifiers operating in a Class-D configuration to achieve high output power and high efficiency at both frequencies. The unique configuration of the amplifier required extensive testing and qualification to demonstrate adequate performance margins to meet mission objectives.