Design of a large dual polarized Ku band reflectarray for space borne radar altimeter

This paper describes the design of a large dual-beam, dual polarized reflectarray designed for a space-based radar altimeter. This application requires a 2.16 × 0.35 m aperture that can be folded for launch stowage. Low mass and >50% efficiency are also required. A reflectarray antenna offers the best approach but also presents unique technical challenges since a reflectarray has never been used in a space based radar application. We describe the design, analysis and measurements of a breadboard test array built to demonstrate the reflectarray concept.