Slot Coupled Patch Array Antenna Technology, Phase I

The proposed project is an antenna array whose beam is controlled digitally. The Phase 1 effort will assess the method needed to achieve the gain, bandwidth, and pattern (3 dB beam-width and scan field of view). This is based on the level of curvature and interference/geometry of the vehicle on which it is to be mounted. Phase 1 focuses on the fabrication and testing of one element and a sub-array of four elements on a similar surface such as a metallic or dielectric with some degree of curvature. Phase 1 also uses the LMS algorithm to adaptively perform beam shifting and correction for phase shift. Phase 2 will increase the number of elements in the array and allow for scanning in both planes. Also, Phase 2 will consider more complicated geometry as required to deliver a functioning antenna array mounted to the space vehicle.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.