A multiple access payload for data relay applications using separate transmit/receive active arrays

A multiple-access S-band payload for intersatellite data relay links is a candidate for the Payload and Satellite Demonstration and Experiments program of the European Space Agency. This payload is designed to have multiple access capability with a G/T of 9 dB/K in 10 degrees half-angle conical scan, to have growth potential, and to minimize the schedule/development risk. The high G/T requirement as compared to modest EIRP (equivalent isotropically radiated power) means that the receive antenna function will dominate the payload in terms of both mass and complexity and therefore any means of optimizing its design will have a large impact on the overall configuration. The initial payload design using separate transmit-receive active arrays is presented.<>