Application of the Time Modulated Array in Satellite Communications

As a research hotspot in antenna arrays, the time modulated array (TMA) has advantages in pattern synthesis, direction finding, adaptive beamforming, and multi-beams, making it a potential application in satellite communications. This article illustrates how to utilize the TMA in satellite communications, to improve the performance of communication between the satellite and Earth. First, the overview of the TMA is provided. Second, direction finding by the TMA on the satellite is analyzed, which helps to detect and track users on Earth. Third, adaptive beamforming based on the TMA is discussed, which synthesizes the pattern of the generated harmonic component to point to mobile users. Fourth, the multibeam characteristic of the TMA is analyzed to simplify the complexity of a multi-beam system on the satellite. Finally, some conclusions are drawn, and areas of further research are put forward.