Optically transparent reflectarray for satellite applications

Abstract

There is a growing need to develop high-gain low-cost antennas for satellite applications. To potentially meet this need, this paper proposes an optically transparent reflectarray antenna with patch elements fabricated using transparent conductive oxide (TCO). This antenna can be incorporated into the solar panels of a satellite, maximizing the satellite's surface area for both solar power collection and antenna gain. In order to reduce loss, the elements are both single-layer and sub-wavelength. Using these elements, a 10×10 optically transparent reflectarray was designed that produces a beam at 20° off-broadside.