Dual band compact and light EBG superstrate based antenna for TT&C applications

In this paper a compact and light antenna with dual circular polarization based on Electromagnetic Band Gap (EBG) superstrate technology capable to fulfill the specific radiofrequency (RF) requirements of a C-Band geostationary TT&C telecommunication satellite system, working simultaneously at 3.7GHz and 4.2GHz is presented. The EBG superstrate is composed by a metallic sheet with holes and equally distanced ring and jerusalem cross shaped metallic elements. The proposed low mass system represents an advantageous alternative to the bulky horn antennas usually used for TT&C operations in current satellites.