The journey to Mercury places extraordinary demands on the electronic systems aboard ESA’s BepiColombo spacecraft. Exxelia has confirmed that its film capacitors, common mode chokes and power inductors are among the components integrated into critical onboard electronics. Their functions include managing power conversion, filtering electrical interference and supporting electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), all essential considerations when systems must operate reliably far from Earth.
Launched in 2018, BepiColombo is a joint mission of the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Its scientific objectives include investigating Mercury’s internal structure, surface composition, magnetic field and interaction with the Sun. The spacecraft’s route involves a series of gravity-assist manoeuvres around Earth, Venus and Mercury to adjust its trajectory. During this prolonged journey, its electronic systems must withstand radiation, repeated temperature changes and the vacuum of space, with no opportunity for routine maintenance.
Film Capacitors designed for long-duration space missions
Spacecraft electronics must deliver consistent performance over extended missions, as component failures can be difficult or impossible to address once a spacecraft is in operation. Reliability and electrical stability are therefore essential considerations in the selection of components for deep-space applications.
Exxelia’s PM90x, PM90 and PM907 film capacitor series are designed to meet the demands of high-reliability applications requiring long service life. Their construction features a self-healing metallized polyester dielectric, low inductance and a thermoplastic case sealed with epoxy resin. The capacitors operate across temperatures ranging from -55°C to +125°C, with DC voltage ratings varying by model from 50 V to 1,250 V. These characteristics make the series suitable for demanding power conversion and filtering applications.
The PM907 range is offered in both radial and surface-mount configurations, with space-quality screening options available for aerospace qualification programmes. Its electrical characteristics include high insulation resistance and a low dissipation factor, while the design is optimized for high-frequency switched-mode power supplies.
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Common Mode Chokes and Power Inductors for Power Integrity
Exxelia’s contribution to spacecraft electronics also includes its CMC Series common mode chokes and SESI Series power inductors, which are designed for use in electronic subsystems.
The CMC Series addresses common-mode electromagnetic interference, helping reduce unwanted electrical noise while keeping insertion losses low. This supports electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), an important consideration when multiple electronic systems must operate reliably within a spacecraft.
The SESI Series, meanwhile, comprises compact, high-current inductors intended for power conversion and energy management. Their design combines high efficiency and mechanical robustness with stable electrical performance across a wide operating temperature range, making them suitable for demanding aerospace environments.
Together with the film capacitors, these magnetic components support several essential functions, including power management, electrical noise suppression and filtering. Their role is particularly important in spacecraft, where onboard electronics must continue operating under demanding conditions throughout an extended mission.
Supporting Long-Duration Space Programs
Film capacitors, common mode chokes and power inductors perform key functions in spacecraft power distribution, filtering and electronic control systems. Their long-term reliability is essential for missions where maintenance is impossible and operational lifetimes extend over many years.
Exxelia is a leading global designer and manufacturer of high performance passive components and subsystems with factories in France, Morocco, United States, India and Vietnam. Exxelia’s product portfolio includes a wide range of capacitors (film, tantalum, ceramic and electrolytic capacitors) and ruggedized magnetic products (inductors, transformers, rotor, stator, etc.), resistors, slip rings, position sensors, medical sensors and high-precision mechanical parts. Recognized worldwide for its advanced design and technical expertise, Exxelia develops both “catalog” and “custom” products exclusively serving high-reliability markets such as aeronautic, space, defense, medical, transportation, telecommunication infrastructure and advanced industrial applications
