Unified Multiple-Beam Uplink Configuration for EHF (Extremely High Frequency) Satellite Communications

摘要

Uplink coverage through high-gain directive beams is a key spacecraft technology for extremely high-frequency satellite communication systems which serve users employing small, low-cost terminals. Coverage of multiple areas on the Earth is provided through multiple uplink antenna beams. A unified antenna/receiver structure is described which provides flexible uplink coverage for these multiple areas through a single antenna aperture. In this approach, a multiple-beam antenna is used with beam selection and additional beam forming done at intermediate frequency. The coverage provided by this system, the reliability, and mass and power impact of the system are discussed.