Open AccessUltra‐wideband phased array for small satellite communications
Author(s) -
Novak Markus H.,
Miranda Félix A.,
Volakis John L.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
iet microwaves, antennas and propagation
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.555
H-Index - 69
eISSN - 1751-8733
pISSN - 1751-8725
DOI - 10.1049/iet-map.2016.0517
Subject(s) - standing wave ratio , communications satellite , wideband , fabrication , satellite , phased array , printed circuit board , broadside , electrical engineering , electronic engineering , computer science , engineering , antenna (radio) , physics , optics , aerospace engineering , microstrip antenna , medicine , alternative medicine , pathology
There is a continuing need for reducing size and weight of satellite systems, particularly in light of recent efforts to increase the functional role of small‐ and nano‐satellites (for instance SmallSats and CubeSats). To this end, a family of arrays is presented, demonstrating ultra‐wideband operation across the numerous satellite communications frequencies up to the Ku‐, Ka‐, and millimetre‐wave bands. The first design is demonstrated to operate from 3.5–18.5 GHz with VSWR < 2 at broadside, and validated through fabrication of an 8 × 8 prototype. Additional designs operating from 7–37 and 9–49 GHz, both with VSWR < 2.1 at broadside, are verified via simulations only. These designs are optimised for low cost, using printed circuit board fabrication and appropriate materials selection for space application. E‐ and H‐plane scanning patterns are provided. Finally, multi‐physics simulations of the array in high‐power transmit are conducted. Temperature trends and distribution are given, with the array showing favourable distribution of thermal energy at up to 2 W of RF input power per element, and a peak temperature only 40°C above ambient.