EM simulation for space applications

24th November 2014

Nat Bowers

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Satellites provide a challenging environment for electromagnetic components and antennas. The limited available space has to be shared by multiple tightly-clustered systems that have to operate correctly in extreme thermal conditions. EM simulation plays a critical role in ensuring that mission-critical components work as intended once in orbit. This webinar will give an overview of how the range of simulation tools in CST STUDIO SUITE can be used to design and optimise antennas and components quickly and with high accuracy.

Satellites typically use high-gain antennas with electrically large apertures. The design and integration of the antennas on satellites require careful analysis and optimisation. Coexistence between antennas, and possible interference with other systems on the satellite, can cause EMC issues which should ideally be understood at an early phase in the design process.

The feed chain for antennas consists of multiple waveguide components including orthomode transducers, waveguide transitions and filters. Attendees will learn how the System Assembly and Modelling framework in CST STUDIO SUITE allows the designer to split the chain into its constituent components. These can then be optimised more efficiently individually, using the most appropriate solver technology, while still having the overall system performance as a goal.

Multipaction is an additional issue the presentation will address, and which can seriously affect high-power components in space. Charged particle simulation can be used in combination with full-wave 3D EM solvers in CST STUDIO SUITE to design components in such a way as to avoid this issue.

Attendees will also be shown how thermal considerations are important in antenna and component design. Thermal energy, both from the sun and from high-power components, can detune components and deform antennas. This can change the frequency performance of feed chains and the far-field radiating performance of antennas. The tightly integrated EM-thermal simulation capability allows these effects to be understood and compensated for early in the design process.