Millimeter-Wave Antenna Circuitry for Inter-Satellite Communications at 60 GHz

 Abstract —With the growing complexity of communication systems, there is an increasing scope for antenna arrays with multi-beam capability for ultra-high broadband, inter-satellite links and inter-spacecraft communications. High data rate demands increased bandwidth requirements, the frequency of operation is increasing to the 60/70/80/90 GHz bands. These frequency bands are applicable to last-mile technologies for inter-satellite links and inter-spacecraft communications with data rates as high as 10 Gbit/s and even beyond. For these applications it is of paramount importance to develop planar technologies that can apply to millimeter-wave (MmW) frequencies with highly integrated system approach including smart antennas. This paper lays a robust foundation for MmW based smart antenna designs, its issues related to radio propagation and applications for inter-satellite links and inter-spacecraft communications. The intermediate and long-term objectives will create a unique and systematic understanding of the proposed innovative antenna array technology and its beamforming