Packaging and deployment strategies for synthetic aperture radar membrane antenna arrays

The performance of spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) is limited by the size and therefore the areal density of the antenna array. Conventional arrays consist of radiating elements mounted on hinged panels that are relatively heavy. In order to produce larger arrays capable of operating at higher altitudes, or to support comparable SAR payloads on smaller spacecraft, a lighter structure such as one using membranes must be used. Membrane antenna arrays have been developed, but deployment remains a challenge. This paper describes possible techniques to package and deploy membrane structures that can support these antenna arrays.