Date of Award

3-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

First Advisor

Timothy S. Wolfe, PhD

Abstract

This effort explored the design of miniaturized rectangular microstrip patch antennas for application as a telemetry, tracking, and control (TT&C) on a CubeSat. The motivation for this research was the Grissom-P CubeSat mission planned by AFIT. The TT&C antenna selected for the mission exceeded the allotted size by over a factor of two. The studies performed included analyses of simply reducing aperture size, altering substrate permittivity, and layered approaches to antenna miniaturization. The primary approach to miniaturization was based on a virtually shorted patch antenna. Other approaches included an edge-shorted, slotted patch and the use of corner truncations for improved performance. The simulated results were compared against a performance baseline for mission suitability. The outcome of this research was the characterization of the baseline antenna, trade space exploration for miniaturization techniques, and recommendations for improved design process and better performance of electrically small antennas.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENG-MS-23-M-013

Comments

A 12-month embargo was observed.

Approved for public release. Case number on file.

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