Applicability of Multiple Folding Array Antennas on CubeSat to Beam Power Transfer

Abstract

  The Multiple Folding Array Antenna has a large deployment and storage ratio and can be deployed in two-dimensions. Compared with parabolic antennas, it is easier to install in small satellites and space probes because it is based on square panels. In addition to the panel shape, the element arrangement is also an important parameter in the array antenna. In this paper, the configuration of the power transmission antenna is considered in the case that CubeSat is applied to beam power transfer. The radiation characteristics of the main beam and side lobe shapes are discussed and compared. We also compare the square arrangement and the checkerboard one.