Publication

Abstract : This paper presents a miniature microstrip patch antenna optimized for 31.3 GHz CubeSat communications. The design demonstrates excellent impedance matching with S11 =17.75dB( VSWR =1.3) and provides a −10 dB impedance bandwidth suitable for high-data-rate transmission. A directive far-field pattern achieves a 13.7 dBi gain, steers the main lobe to 1° elevation, and offers a 21.9∘3dB beamwidth that balances coverage and selectivity for efficient satellite links. Fabricated on a compact 19.50mm×3.10mm footprint with 92% total efficiency, the antenna is ideal for integration into the 10×10×10 cm CubeSat frame. This high-efficiency, space-constrained design supports applications such as Earth observation data downlinks, inter-satellite networking, and reliable communication in power-limited orbital environments.