Highly Integrated Low-Profile Multilayer Dual-Polarized Phased Array Antenna with Truncated Cavities for First Pulsed Bistatic L-band Airborne SAR Sensor

Abstract

This manuscript presents a novel highly integrated dual-polarized multilayer phased array antenna of 40 elements with beam steering in elevation for a bistatic L-band airborne SAR system. The proposed work exploits efficiently the restricted antenna aperture size on the aircraft by reducing the array interelement spacing and improves the antenna element isolation by means of truncated cavities, which allows to maximize the density of array elements. To further extend the degree of integration, the antenna along with the feeding network is assembled in a flight-certified housing where the electrical interconnection is performed without cables. In comparison with the L-band antenna of the current operative DLR's airborne SAR sensor, F-SAR, the presented design provides 66% more antenna elements considering the same antenna aperture size. Thus, the high density of array elements of the proposed solution allows to enhance the beamforming capabilities that are required for next-generation SAR sensors. Precisely, the proposed antenna will be installed under two aircrafts for the operational implementation of the first pulsed bistatic L-band airborne SAR system that will support the technological development of future bistatic spaceborne SAR missions.