GNSS patch antennas for space launch vehicles

For ten years, Astrium Space Transportation has developed and improved antennas for GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) applications on space launch vehicles. These antennas are based on standard or stacked patch technology. A specific thermal protection (Norcoat 4000, a dielectric material manufactured by Astrium) is directly moulded on the substrate. The first antenna, qualified in 2007, is used to improve localization functionality for flight tests on a French military launcher. The others have been developed for the future GNSS systems on current (Ariane 5) and future civil launchers. This technology is qualified for harsh environments related to the flight of the space launcher.