Wrapped Rib antenna into orbit and beyond

Unlike satellite based optical Earth Observation systems that rely on reflected solar radiation or thermal radiation emitted by Earth, imaging radar instruments work independently of light and heat. Radar is an active system that transmits a beam of radiation in the microwave region of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) can provide day-and-night imagery of Earth. A key advantage of this technique is that clouds, fog and precipitation do not have any significant effect on microwaves, so images can also be acquired independent of weather conditions. Depending on the frequency band of the radar system considerable penetration can be achieved into vegetation, dry soil, ice and snow. This makes SAR the technology of choice for geoscience and Earth monitoring.

The proposed project will focus on the development of an innovative deployable SAR antenna for space applications. It will enable Oxford Space Systems to build an antenna suitable for an in orbit demonstration as well as undertaking further technical development of the innovative deployable SAR wrapped rib antenna This is a promising antenna variant, known as 'wrapped rib' is gaining increasing interest across the global space industry with its combination of excellent RF performance with low mass and small stowed volume.. These types of antennas remain stowed during their transit from Earth to space and deploy into their final configuration once their intended orbit is reached.

The ultimate goal of an improved SAR antenna design is to enable the acquisition of real-time, high-resolution images of the Earth from space. This can be achieved through satellite constellations carrying wideband, high frequency, high-gain SAR antennas.