Antenna sizing and testing of SCOOBI nano-satellite

Abstract

Miniaturized satellites known as CubeSats are at the forefront of the space industry due to its adaptable features to meet space mission requirements. NTU SaRC has plans for a space mission titled SCOOBI using a 3U CubeSat. Part of the satellite’s subsystem involves a telecommunication system for information transfer. The purpose of the project was to design a prototype antenna as part of this system. Antenna figures-of-merit, namely antenna efficiency and directivity, were researched upon. Thereafter, variations of these figures were simulated firstly through MATLAB and later tested through laboratory tests. Simulation and test results were compared, ultimately characterizing the antenna with its radiated power. Through the figures-of-merit tested, the designed antenna was able to receive power with minimal attenuation. However, its radiation capability showed otherwise. In conclusion, the designed antenna can be used for SCOOBI, provided that part of the electrical circuitry of the antenna be changed and tested again with definite variables to confirm an acceptable, tuned antenna.