First prototyping of a compact mobile Ku-band satellite terminal

This article focuses on the buildup of the first prototype of a phased array realised within the ESA-project NATALIA. The phased array antenna is designed for mobile satellite services and dedicated to automotive applications. Key components of the complete buildup will be introduced such as a highly optimised antenna aperture, a first version of a multilayer Printed Circuit Board (PCB) including various circuits like RF-feeding network and digital logic, designed for mass production, and a dedicated MMIC-component that is the core element responsible for the beam steering of the array. Specific problems resulting from the packaging and buildup will be addressed.