A steerable reflectarray antenna with MEMS controls

A reflectarray antenna in Ka-band is currently developed under the French research project ARRESAT. Reflectarrays become attractive for satellite telecommunications, as long as they exhibit low losses. Due to the emergence of the MEMS technology, such features may be obtained. This communication presents a potential application mission, and the development of low losses phase shift elements, using MEMS switches. The technological and electrical considerations that govern the accommodations of these switches within the reflectarray are detailed. Measurements of the active phase shift elements are shown.