Phased Antenna Array Concept for Flexible Satellite Communications in Ka-Band

An innovative architecture of a phased antenna array operating in the Ka band is reported. It operates in the 25.5 GHz to 27 GHz frequency span with a target EIRP higher than 70 dBm, even considering the maximum beam steering configuration of $\pm \mathbf{2 0}^{\circ}$. The whole system presented features a hybrid structure that includes a multilayer PCB hosting RF, control networks and electronics components inside the body of a phased array made with 64 hollow metallic horns as radiating elements. The proposed architecture shows flexibility in targeting different far field performance then capabilities to be employed in different space missions. Different kind of use-cases have been analyzed, spanning from inter-satellite links to EO downlink operations, together with possible evolutions in terms antenna configuration to wider the applicable scenarios.