Unlike geostationary (GEO) satellites, LEO satellites need to be constantly tracked across the sky by the user terminal’s antenna. To be able to tap latent demand in unconnected parts of the world this functionality must be achieved at low cost.
Electronically steerable antennas lend themselves to this application. But so far, none of the proposed technologies have achieved cost and performance levels that could catalyse the transformation of the global communications landscape promised by LEO satellite constellations.
Drawing on the multidisciplinary expertise of our scientists and engineers, we have invented a differentiated antenna solution based on smart materials, which is more competitive than, for instance, traditional phased arrays based on semiconductor beamformers – both in terms of cost and performance. In addition, our electronically steerable antenna is compatible with existing satcom front-ends (BUCs and LNBs).
Our technology is suitable for Ku- and Ka-band satellite communications and, potentially, cellular 5G. The solution is highly scalable to accommodate a wide range of antenna gain levels. With this antenna, we are well placed to develop integrated low-cost satcom user terminals.
Our antenna technology will make VSAT satcom terminals more affordable and open untapped markets for the satcom sector. The technology is available for licensing and designing into our clients’ satcom solutions.
