RF MEMS based systems for space communications

In this paper novel concepts for space communication systems are introduced. A switch matrix system for satellite applications based on RF MEMS switches is described. For space applications RF MEMS switches have several advantages compared to their mechanical or solid-state counterparts. They are small, compact and lightweight with a high linearity up to high frequencies. The simulated performance of the 12×12 switch matrix is below -12dB IL (Insertion Loss) up to C band and better than -15dB RL (Return Loss) up to Ku band. Moreover, it has a good isolation better than -50dB. Technology, performance and limitations of the proposed system are discussed.