Communications-On-The-Move (COTM) Antenna Pointing and Stabilization System

In Phase II Syntonics will develop, select and implement fabrication techniques to create PARCA tiles with approximately 1-mm pixels, nominally in 100x100 matrices. Our goal for Phase II is successful X-band testing of a prototype PARCA tile with approximately 10,000 pixels and actuators. PARCA is a phased array technology that operates under software control to be pointing-agile, frequency-agile, polarization-agile, low profile, and affordable. One COTM concept uses a PARCA panel that is mechanically pointed for slow gross pointing and electronically pointed via software for fast fine pointing. Another COTM concept uses multiple PARCA panels to provide all-sky coverage. BENEFIT: The initial market for a PARCA-COTM system is substantial, as the market for military satcom systems is large both in the U.S. and with allied militaries. However, the PARCA technology will also be compelling in other military applications than need a thin, flat-plate array that provides agility in frequency, gain, steering, and polarization.