Novel Triple-Resonant Interdigital GNSS Patch Antenna

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Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL) has a long history in advanced GNSS technology ranging from space GPS receiver design up to Galileo GIOVE mission and FOC payloads. SSTL is planning the development of a triple frequency antenna for new precise spaceborne GNSS applications, as suitable compact triple frequency antennas are not available commercially in the configuration required. Hence SSTL is proposing a novel antenna design for this competition that meets both the needs of its space requirements and also the needs of this SBRI call - i.e. small, robust, high performance, and low cost, in a configuration that also lends itself to low cost mass manufacture.An interdigital design has been adopted that allows the achievement of resonance at three frequencies within a single patch-like element. This avoids the need for stacking multiple elements, or for a standing off from a ground plane as is required for a wideband spiral. The design does not require unusually high or stable dielectric material, and can be be accommodated within 1 mm thickness (initially excluding radome).For generic application, a wideband Low Noise Amplifier is integrated with the antenna that can be operated off 3 to 5V, but this can be deselected as a manufacturing option to transform it into a passive antenna. The LNA will add 0.5 mm to the package, though this could be recessed into the mounting panel to maintain the 1 mm profile (excluding radome). Gains of 20 dB and 45 dB will be supported. This approach will allow reception of L1, L2 and L5 signals, within a suitably small package that the antenna could be incorporated into a CPRA (phased array). SSTL has anechoic facilities for tuning functional test, and has partners who are able to offer calibrated antenna measurement chamber. For subsequent phases, SSTL can manufacture and test small quantities of antennas, but would expect to licence the design to a mass product manufacturer, exclusively if required, as long as the IP for use in space applications is maintained by SSTL.