Phased Array Antennas for Satellite Communications

Abstract

The properties of phased array antennas make them a good target to be used in satellite communications for moving vehicles. Thus, some results are presented for better system performance based on controlling and enhancing parameters and errors. Therefore, the ability to steer the beam direction by applying specific phases across the elements of the array is certainly more practical than using auto acquisitions antennas. However, there are certain challenges that will be presented throughout this research which will need to be mended to make use of phased array antennas to become more practical. Such challenges are: array size, scanning angle, quantization effects, and element errors. These challenges lead to increase half-power beamwidth as well as the rise of sidelobe peak values. In this paper, these effects will be explained under the regulations that have been drawn up by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for satellite communications in the Ku band and will be compared, where appropriate, to the circular aperture antennas.