Multi-Beam Electronically Steerable Antenna Array concepts for an X-Band Deep Space Gateway Data Link

Abstract

In the recent years, the interest of active phased arrays for SATCOM and space data link application has in-creased. In particular, ESA has recently started several studies on multi-beam electronically steerable array antennas for data link applications in cis-lunar missions, which will deploy a space outpost that will perform crewed and un-crewed lunar surface operations, while orbiting around the moon and will provide data link for command and telemetry communication with the Earth. In this framework a multi-beam electronically steerable antenna allows simultaneous communication between the moon space station, the ground station on Earth, the Data Relay Satellite and the visiting vehicles from the Moon, reducing the need for multiple on-board equipment. Within the frame of ESA contract 4000123998/18/NL/AF, the multibeam electronically steerable antenna system is studied covering two approaches: a standard array antenna and an array antenna equipped with a dielectric dome lens.