Microfabricated 40-200 GHz Multi-beam Aperture with Metamaterial Superstrate

Electronically scanned antenna arrays that support wide-bandwidth operation are desirable for many functions of interest to the DoD, including spaceborne radar and radiometry systems with multiple instruments sharing a common aperture. For low earth orbit applications, systems with multiple electronically-commandable beams can extend dwell time on a given observation point on Earth without mechanical parts. There are many challenges with the manufacturability and efficiency of such a system in the 40-200 GHz range using conventional substrate-based technologies that support a TEM transmission line. The Nuvotronics? proprietary PolyStrata? additive microfabrication process is tailored specifically for meeting modern needs for low-loss, broadband array systems at mmW frequencies. Nuvotronics proposes a program focused on developing a PolyStrata?-based, scalable array solution for meeting the desired technical requirements over the full range of frequencies. A broadband beamforming network to support four or more simultaneous beams will be included.