MMIC antenna technology development in the 30/20 gigahertz band

Abstract

This paper presents a progress summary of NASA's efforts in developing 20 and 30 GHz GaAs MIC devices and an advanced satellite communications antenna system using these devices. In the interest of preserving resources such as frequency spectrum and orbital space the antenna system is being developed with multiple fixed spot beams and multiple scanning spot beams.NASA set high goals for the MMIC development to push GaAs technology. These goals and the main features of tne MMIC devices are discussed. Some packaging and characterization considerations are also discussed.Tne 20 GHz transmit antenna and 30 GHz receive antenna are being developed separately. Tne approach selected is to perform contractual configuration studies, purchase a 20-GHz experimental antenna system (EAS) and perform in-house evaluation.Tne features and key specifications of tne EAS are discussed. Additional supporting technologies such as effects of coupling on modest sized arrays, MMIC matching techniques, in-house uialytical capability, wideband and dual frequency microstrip patch array development, and MMIC packaging techniques are described.Some plans for future work are also discussed.