Design and characterization of a simplified planar 16×8 RF MEMS switch matrix for a GEO-stationary data relay

This paper presents the design and measurements of a simplified design approach for a 16 × 8 switch matrix based on Radio Frequency Microelectromechanical System (RF MEMS) switches. The operational frequency range is between 25.5 GHz and 26.5 GHz for data links between a Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) relay satellite and several Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The switch matrix implements a key functionality for tracking the incident signals of the LEO satellites on the receive feed antenna array of the GEO satellite's reflector antenna. A maximum insertion loss of 8.5 dB, isolation of higher than 45 dB and a minimum return loss of 18 dB have been measured.