Objective Compact satellites are transforming space-based surveillance systems. Typical configurations include a network of small satellites that can offer increased coverage and enhanced data collection rates when compared to conventional large scale systems. Microsatellites can also drastically reduce launching costs and mission development time, thus making remote sensing technologies more cost effective. Applications include vehicle tracking, weather monitoring, maritime surveillance, crop growth analysis, and climate change observation. However, with satellite miniaturization, new design aspects arise. All satellite components have to be cleverly packaged within a small payload and materials must accommodate the harsh operating environments of space. The objective of the proposed research program is to research, design and test some new and compact antennas with integrated feed systems for such microsatellites. High levels of technical engagement are expected with satellite companies within the European Union such as the European Space Agency, Clyde Space, and PocketQube Shop. The intent of the proposed research project is to also benefit from ongoing research within the Microwave and Antenna Research Group at Heriot-Watt University. This group has a track record of developing new and innovative antenna designs, feeding systems, and filters for space technologies while also working alongside industry experts, technologists, and government scientists. Previous and current industrial partners include Airbus Defence and Space, Bell Labs Alcatel-Lucent, BSC Filters, COM DEV, Samsung, Huawei Technologies, Selex, and Thales Alenia Space. Some recent projects include planar antennas for onboard satellite antenna technologies and power amplifier design as well as compact antennas for microsatellites. Some of these activities have won awards from the European Space Agency and The European Conference on Antennas and Propagation. Fields of science engineering and technologymechanical engineeringvehicle engineeringaerospace engineeringsatellite technologyengineering and technologyenvironmental engineeringremote sensingagricultural sciencesagriculture, forestry, and fisheriesagriculturenatural sciencesearth and related environmental sciencesatmospheric sciencesclimatologyclimatic changes Keywords Antennas Microsatellite Microwave Circuits Miniaturization RF and Microwave Engineering Programme(s) H2020-EU.1.3. - EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Main Programme H2020-EU.1.3.2. - Nurturing excellence by means of cross-border and cross-sector mobility Topic(s) MSCA-IF-2015-EF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF-EF) Call for proposal H2020-MSCA-IF-2015 See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MSCA-IF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF) Coordinator HERIOT-WATT UNIVERSITY Net EU contribution € 195 454,80 Address Riccarton EH14 4AS Edinburgh United Kingdom See on map Region Scotland Eastern Scotland Edinburgh Activity type Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Participation in EU R&I programmes Opens in new window HORIZON collaboration network Opens in new window Total cost € 195 454,80
