Internship: Low-cost antenna for tracking LEO PNT signals Title: Low-cost antenna for tracking LEO PNT signalsObjectives:The emergence of private space industry, miniaturization and cost drop of manufacturing/assembly and launching, led to the deployment of large satellite constellations in Low Earth Orbit.
There are on-going initiatives that explore LEO signals for Positioning, Navigation and Timing applications.
The objective of this work is to investigate the development of a low-cost antenna configuration for single-beam tracking of such signals in the L-band.The Antennas and Propagation Group of Instituto de Telecomunicações in Lisbon has experience with very promising low-profile, low-cost mechanical beam scanning antenna solutions for the satellite Ka-band.
These are based on thin planar metamaterial surfaces.
The objective of the present work is to explore the possibility of bringing these concepts to low frequency.
The main challenge is related to the 20x larger absolute dimensions that make impractical some options easily adopted at mm-waves.
The aim is to achieve a mid-gain antenna, tentatively with 1-m diameter and up to total height, that can lay flat on the floor of a building terrace and mechanically scan the solid angle from zenith down to 30º elevation.
The RF output signal can then be digitized for post processing.The project will include:1. Review and analysis of the literature on low-profile mechanical beam scanning antennas.2.
Acquaintance with in-house and commercial antenna design tools for this type of antenna.3.
Study of possible designs, evaluation, and prototype planning, includinga basic mechanical setup.4.
Construction of a motorized L-band prototype, possibly preceded by a non-motorized scaled version at the X-band, for more controlled radiation pattern characterization at the antenna measurement facilities of Instituto de Telecomunicações at IST.5.
Live demonstration of the antenna with COTS GNSS receivers and other COTS antennas at GMV premises.
WHAT DO WE OFFER?
Totalflexibility to be able to combine the internship with your studies.
Yourgraduation is important!
Realpossibilities to continue with us once the internship is over, making iteasier for you to develop your professional career.You will have free days to enjoy.
You also deserve a break!
Highfinancial assistance for your studies.
You will find free fruit and coffee at your disposal in our canteen, and youcan join yourteam activities and sports competitions (leave the "with us" away)?