Compact Isoflux X-band Payload Telemetry Antenna with Simultaneous Dual Circular Polarization for LEO Satellite Applications

Abstract : This paper describes a compact isoflux X-band payload telemetry and data handling antenna with simultaneous dual circular polarization for Low Earth Orbits (LEO) satellite applications. The main objective of this antenna is to use polarization diversity to improve the efficiency of the payload telemetry link. Some solutions have already been proposed to that end, but the studied antenna combines both good electromagnetic performances and compactness. This high power capability waveguide antenna presents an axial ratio (AR) lower than 2.5 dB over the 8.025-8.4 GHz frequency band at the limit of coverage, i.e. 65°, for any azimuth angle (φ). It has been designed, realized and successfully measured.