Antennas for small satellites

Abstract

Small low-cost satellites, pioneered at Surrey, are revolutionizing space. This paper gives an overview of antenna technologies for applications in small satellites. First, an introduction to small satellites and their structure is presented. This is followed by a description of the technical challenges of antenna design for small satellites. Various antennas for small satellite applications are illustrated. A conclusion and future work at Surrey Space Centre (SSC) and Surrey Satellite Technology (SSTL) is presented in the end

Structural Architectures for a Deployable Wideband UHF Antenna

“…The final width is b/2 = √2L/4, and the final height is (4) Without details of the antenna or shell material, it is difficult to accurately estimate the stowed thickness of this antenna concept. Assuming very thin conductors and a solid shell, the thickness of the stowed configuration is estimated to be four times the minimum bending diameter of the selected shell material.…”

“…A different antenna type is required to achieve a significant increase in bandwidth. Prior work into small satellite antennas has suggested patch antennas (which do not have to be deployed) and a deployable hemispherical helical antenna that flattens into a single plane [4,1]. Further, active antennas (which do not have to be deployed) have been considered by the University of Hawaii for one of its own CubeSats [5].…”

Circularly Polarized Microstrip Antennas with Proximity Coupled Feed for Circularly Polarized Synthetic Aperture Radar

“…Basic radiator configurations used are normally helices, monopoles, patches, and patch-excited cups, depending on frequency range, coverage requirements, and application (Gao et al, 2008;2009). Before moving on to the objectives of the Chapter, a few comments on frequency allocations are in order.…”

Design of a compact multiband circularly polarized antenna for global navigation satellite systems and 5G/B5G applications

“…This challenging task has compelled the antenna engineers to look for new solutions by redesigning and transforming the known antenna types. A single feed and compact multiband CP antenna that can perform multiple functions effectively and simultaneously is reckoned as a good alternative to overcome these space and performance limitations . This multifunction/multiband antenna solution will not only leave space for extra components and cut the cost but also improve operation due to reduced weight and mutual coupling for small satellites or handheld mobile terminals.…”