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Electronic Beam-Scanning Technology for Small Satellite Communication Systems and Their Future Development

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Handbook of Small Satellites

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Abstract

The rapid development of a new antenna technology known as electronic beam-scanning systems, phased arrays, flat panels, and other phraseologies has opened up new vistas for antenna solutions of twenty-first-century satellite communications. This technology has the potential to be applied in the deployment and use of MEO, LEO, and small satellite constellations, in addition to supporting ground systems of GEO/MEO/LEO satellite networks. In particular, it holds the promise of expanding the addressable market for mobility applications of satellite networks by virtue of reducing size, weight, power, and cost compared to mechanically steered antennas. Development of this technology for space antennas and ground systems is still evolving. This chapter describes the nature of electronic beam-scanning antennas, the technology challenges, their applications, and state-of-the-art solutions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada

    Safieddin (Ali) Safavi-Naeini

  2. Corporate Marketing, Hughes Network Systems, Germantown, MD, USA

    Arunas G. Slekys

Authors
  1. Safieddin (Ali) Safavi-Naeini
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  2. Arunas G. Slekys
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Correspondence to Safieddin (Ali) Safavi-Naeini .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. International Space University, Arlington, VA, USA

    Joseph N. Pelton

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Safavi-Naeini, S.(., Slekys, A.G. (2020). Electronic Beam-Scanning Technology for Small Satellite Communication Systems and Their Future Development. In: Pelton, J. (eds) Handbook of Small Satellites. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-20707-6_30-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-20707-6_30-1

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  • Print ISBN: 978-3-030-20707-6

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