new benchmark in scientific instrumentation

mtex has developed a next-generation high-frequency antenna system for the California Institute of Technology. Designed for one of the world’s most advanced radio telescope arrays, the system combines extreme precision with industrial-scale production.

More than 1,600 antennas will be delivered, meeting the highest standards in robustness, accuracy, and price-to-performance. Built for cutting-edge science, 100% made in Germany, fully independent of international supply chains, and scalable in both design and volume.

Driven by know-how, advanced manufacturing, and the people behind it. This is antenna technology without compromise!

mtex antenna technology starring in „precision into space“

In a new short film, Liebherr illustrates the development and manufacture of the high-precision ngVLA antenna prototype from mtex

The international research project ngVLA (Next Generation Very Large Array) is the focus of the film “Precision into Space.” The film shows mtex antenna technology, the main technological player responsible for the design, development, and manufacture of a high-precision antenna prototype, working together with Liebherr to redefine the limits of engineering.

The short film illustrates the close collaboration between mtex antenna technology and Liebherr in implementing the demanding technical requirements of the ngVLA project. It highlights state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies and the highest precision standards. These are necessary to realize antenna systems for astronomical observations with exceptional accuracy.

The Next Generation Very Large Array is a major international research project led by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) in the USA. The aim is to build a new radio telescope network with 244 parabolic antennas. This powerful instrument will enable the formation of stars, planets, galaxies, and black holes to be studied with unprecedented resolution.

As part of the project, mtex antenna technology is developing a fully functional prototype of an 18-meter antenna that will serve as a reference for subsequent series production. The extreme demands on the reflector in terms of precision and reliability require maximum rigidity, thermal stability, and surface accuracy.

“We are delighted that Liebherr has documented our joint work and the technological challenges so vividly in this film,” says [Lutz Stenvers, CEO, managing shareholder, mtex antenna technology]. “The ngVLA project combines cutting-edge technology, international cooperation, and engineering excellence at the highest level—values that also shape our daily work.”

ngVLA BUS in Saxony

Throwback to the first time assembling the BackUp Structure of next generation Very Large Array Prototype Antenna in Schkeuditz, Saxony.