A vertically integrated Ka-band phased array antennaThe design, development, and experimental demonstration of a small phased array antenna suitable for applications on communications satellites are discussed. Each of the vertical layers was optimized for performance, and MMICs on custom carriers were characterized prior to insertion. A vertical integration architecture is used which minimizes the size of the array with its associated beamforming network (BFN). The antenna features a four-element linear microstrip array that uses aperture coupling of the antenna elements to the BFN; a modified Wilkinson power divider BFN; and 32 Ghz, 4-bit MMIC phase shifters on customized alumina carriers. Performance data are presented for all components, and far-field antenna radiation patterns are given.
Document ID
19920055516
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Kunath, R. R. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Lee, R. Q. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Martzaklis, K. S. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Shalkhauser, K. A. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Downey, A. N. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Simons, R. (Sverdrup Technology, Inc. Middleburg Heights, OH, United States)