Project Overview
Small Spacecraft Systems & Payload Centre – IIST-ISRO, Trivandrum, India
International Satellites Program in Research and Education (INSPIRESat-3)
October 2024 - Present
As part of the INSPIRESat-3 CubeSat mission, a multinational initiative involving LASP, IIST, the University of Alberta (Canada), and FZJ University (Germany), this project focuses on the Satellite Communication Subsystem. The mission aims to enhance space-based research through advanced communication technologies, with a particular emphasis on RF engineering solutions.
Key Contributions and Developments
1. UHF Band Monopole Tape Antenna for Beacon Data Transmission
- Designed a monopole tape antenna optimized for UHF band operation.
- Conducted rigorous testing and validation at the SSPACE Laboratory to ensure optimal performance in beacon data transmission.
2. X-Band Patch Array Antenna for Primary Data Transmission
- Engineered a high-performance patch array antenna for efficient X-band data transmission.
- The design is undergoing verification and optimization to meet the mission’s stringent communication requirements.
3. Power Divider for Patch Array Antenna
- Developed a power divider to enhance the efficiency of the patch array antenna.
- Focused on minimizing power losses and ensuring even signal distribution for reliable satellite communication.
Mission Impact and Future Prospects
- The INSPIRESat-3 communication subsystem is set to enhance global satellite research, facilitating high-efficiency data transmission.
- Ongoing testing and verification will refine the antenna and RF subsystem designs for future small satellite missions.
- Exploration of advanced RF technologies for enhanced satellite communication efficiency and resilience.
This work contributes to the advancement of small satellite communication systems, reinforcing the collaborative efforts in international space research.
