An Optimization Method for the Monopole Antenna Placement of a Low-Orbit Small Satellite

In this paper an optimization method for the placement of a small satellite antenna is presented. The method compares the radiation pattern of an antenna system of a satellite with a map showing the direction of the ground station as seen by the spacecraft according to its attitude throughout all the mission phases, expressed in azimuth and elevation. The comparison aims to estimate quantitatively the satellite's connectivity with the Earth. Such estimation has allowed to optimize the antenna system of the small-platform developed by Sitael S.p.A. for the μHETSat mission, improving the connectivity for the monopole downlink antenna. The theoretical background of the method is described and an application example is given showing the benefit in placement of non-directive antennas for low-orbit small satellites.