Design and Manufacture of a Symbiotic Satellite Structure to Improve the Performance of Phased Arrays (1000-088)

SI2 Technologies, Inc. (SI2) proposes to develop a symbiotic satellite structure with improved phased array performance by engineering the transmittance and reflectivity to match the structure and reducing the impact of surface waves. The proposed concept utilizes SI2’s proprietary conformal electronics manufacturing technology to transform the structure of the satellite into an integral part of the system. The resulting symbiotic structure will retain its desirable structural properties while increasing the performance of the phased array antenna. To help ensure applicability of our efforts, and to begin work towards technology transition, SI2 has teamed with a prime contractor who will provide system requirements and implementation opportunities. The Phase I program will demonstrate the electromagnetic (EM) and structural performance of the symbiotic satellite structure through simulation and testing. The manufacturability and ability to integrate the EM and mechanical properties into a single structure will be established through the design and manufacture of a hardware demonstrator. The follow-on Phase II program will refine the concept and develop a specification for a prototype with the Air Force. A full-scale prototype symbiotic satellite structure will be designed, manufactured and tested.