Dual Band X/Ka On-The-Move Antenna System

The proposed project will enable the realization of a low profile, CP X-band antenna designed for a Comm-On-The-Move application. A high gain X-Band design is realized utilizing novel packaging and integration of proven innovations from ThinKom in the areas of low loss feed networks, integrated high efficiency radiating aperture technologies, waveguide rotary joints, and gimbals. The resulting antenna will have significant performances advantages over a similarly sized dish. The low profile, ultimately dual band antenna will provide an inconspicuous appearance to the ground vehicle. Phase I of this effort will study, trade, and design the constituent components and integrated packaging of a circularly polarized, X-band CTS (Continuous Transverse Stub) array suitable for mounting on low profile gimbal (< 6” high). The polarization and frequency of operation will be designed for communication using the X-band capability of WGS satellites. The design will be compatible with a subsequent Phase II effort to mount a Ka band CTS array on the “opposing side” of the X band array, to allow for quick frequency band selection in the field. The dual band design developed during Phase II would be compatible with a CTS specific gimbal currently in development under another SBIR.