Distributed multi-function antenna system for micro- and nano-satellites

Nano and pico satellites have recently come out, focusing on the realization of spacecraft with small mass, small size, low cost and rapid timescales. One of the problems related to small satellites is the limited capability of RF section in terms of number and quality of available links. These limitations may be overcome by exploiting a new antenna concept based on the idea of “structural radiators” borrowed from Avionic and Naval applications as well as from hand-held communication. It is here shown that, when properly optimized, a multi-port system permits to achieve a plurality of functions together with a natural redundancy that improves fault tolerance.