Session
Technical Poster Session 3
Location
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Abstract
The rise of new Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) satellite constellations requires dynamic tracking and seamless handover from one satellite to another without causing interruptions or signal degradations. This trend is increasing the complexity of the ground segment that is now adapting first with the reutilization of existing on-the-move tracking technology and moving into new developments of commercially viable electronically steered antennas (ESA).
The issue investigated is the lack of clear guidelines on testing the performance of such antennas, which are not currently standardized.
The testing procedure is a qualification methodology for muti orbit tracking antennas based on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) technology with capabilities of measuring antenna characteristics (patterns, gain, polarization purity), and emulating discrete satellite passes where both motion and signal properties are manipulated so that a full validation could be completed anywhere in the world. The procedure is valid for both user terminals and gateways operating on all orbit types, and it covers all antenna design types, such as mechanical parabolic and electronic steerable antennas.
The UAV is equipped with RF transceivers and directional antennas operating over a wide frequency range. The proposed test, measurement and calibration scenarios are possible by positioning these payloads precisely around an antenna under test (AUT) and programming the SDR based transceiver to emulate the same signal signatures as a satellite would do.
LEO Ground Segment Testing: Addressing the Challenge
Utah State University, Logan, UT
The rise of new Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) satellite constellations requires dynamic tracking and seamless handover from one satellite to another without causing interruptions or signal degradations. This trend is increasing the complexity of the ground segment that is now adapting first with the reutilization of existing on-the-move tracking technology and moving into new developments of commercially viable electronically steered antennas (ESA).
The issue investigated is the lack of clear guidelines on testing the performance of such antennas, which are not currently standardized.
The testing procedure is a qualification methodology for muti orbit tracking antennas based on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) technology with capabilities of measuring antenna characteristics (patterns, gain, polarization purity), and emulating discrete satellite passes where both motion and signal properties are manipulated so that a full validation could be completed anywhere in the world. The procedure is valid for both user terminals and gateways operating on all orbit types, and it covers all antenna design types, such as mechanical parabolic and electronic steerable antennas.
The UAV is equipped with RF transceivers and directional antennas operating over a wide frequency range. The proposed test, measurement and calibration scenarios are possible by positioning these payloads precisely around an antenna under test (AUT) and programming the SDR based transceiver to emulate the same signal signatures as a satellite would do.
