In the ever-evolving world of Satellite Communication, Flat Panel Antennas have emerged as a compact versatile solution. Among these, the K-band and Ka-band Phased Array Flat Panel Antennas have garnered significant attention due to their impressive performance and adaptability. The following will go into the features, applications, and specifications of both the K-band Fixed Beam Flat Panel Antenna and the Ka-band Flat Panel Array Antenna.
K-band Fixed Beam Flat Panel Antenna
The K band fixed beam flat panel antenna operates within the frequency range of 17-21 GHz, with a center frequency of 19 GHz. This Antenna offers the convenience of pre-configurable Left-Hand Circular Polarization (LHCP) or Right-Hand Circular Polarization (RHCP), making it highly adaptable to various scenarios. Its compact size enables it to fit perfectly into CubeSats, revolutionizing communication in small satellite missions.
Key Specifications:
- VSWR <1.65 – This ensures efficient power transfer and minimal signal loss.
- Peak Gain >20 dB – Provides strong Signal amplification for improved reception.
- HPBW 9-11 degrees – Offers a focused beam for precise communication.
- Axial Ratio <3 dB – Maintains signal integrity by minimizing polarization distortion.
- Power handling 5W – Allows for the transmission of high-power signals without damage.
- K connector (vertical land/or horizontal) – Enables easy integration and connectivity
- Mass <50g – Lightweight design ideal for space-constrained environments.
- Dimensions (excl. connector) 84 x 98 mm – Compact form factor for seamless integration.
Applications include Satellite Communications, 5G and other high data rate applications. The K band fixed beam flat panel antennas facilitate high-speed data transmission and reception for satellites, enhancing connectivity and enabling critical communication in space.
Ka-band Flat Panel Array Antenna
The Ka-band flat panel array antenna operates within the frequency range of 27-31 GHz, with a center frequency of 29.25 GHz Similar to the K-band antenna, it offers the flexibility of LHCP or RHCP polarization. Its compact dimensions and compatibility with CubeSats make it an excellent choice for small satellite missions.
Key Specifications:
- 3dB Axial Ratio Bandwidth: Covers a wide frequency range of 1.5 GHz, ensuring reliable polarization performance.
- Gain 20 dBi: Provides significant signal amplification for long-distance communication.
- 3dB beamwidth 13 degrees: Offers a moderately focused beam for effective coverage.
- K connector (rear-mounted): Simplifies integration and connectivity.
- Impedance 50 Ohm: Matches standard impedance requirements for seamless system integration.
- Dimensions 51 x 51 mm: Compact size facilitates easy installation and integration.
- Space-Qualified Materials: The Ka-band flat panel array antenna utilizes space-qualified materials, ensuring its durability and reliability in the harsh space environment, safeguarding its performance over extended periods.
- Scalable Design: The antenna’s design is scalable, offering flexibility in adjusting gain and beamwidth. Higher gain configurations result in narrower beamwidth, allowing for customized adaptation to different communication requirements and coverage areas.
Applications:
- Earth Observation: The ka band flat panel array antenna enables high-resolution imaging and data transmission for Earth observation satellites, facilitating environmental monitoring, disaster management, and urban planning.
- Remote sensing: This antenna supports remote sensing applications, such as weather forecasting, agriculture monitoring, and climate research, by providing accurate and timely data acquisition.
- Communication: The Ka-band flat panel array antenna excels in long-distance communication, thanks to its impressive 20 dBi gain, ensuring reliable signal amplification. With a moderately focused beam of 13 degrees, it offers effective coverage and seamless connectivity through its K connector (rear-mounted) and impedance of 50 Ohm, which matches standard requirements for system integration.
K and Ka-band phased array flat panel antennas are revolutionizing satellite communication in CubeSats and small satellite missions. Their compact size, versatile polarization options, and impressive specifications make them ideal for a range of applications. As technology continues to advance, these antennas hold great promise for the future of space-based communication and remote sensing.
Click here to learn more about ReliaSat's K and Ka-band Flat Panel Antennas.
