A Ka-Band Dual-Band Reflectarray Antenna With Solar Cells

A dual-band circularly polarized high-gain reflectarray with solar cells is presented for satellite communication. Dual-frequency element structures are designed at 20 and 40 GHz, including metallic cross and incision circle. Solar cells are integrated as the ground plane, and their effects on the antenna performance are investigated. A prototype with an aperture size of 157.5 × 157.5 mm
²
is fabricated and tested. The maximum measured gains are 26.36 and 33.01 dBic at 19.2 and 39.08 GHz with aperture efficiencies of 33.8% and 37.8%. By properly designing the dual-band element structure, the optical blockage ratio is less than 10%. This reflectarray antenna with solar cells can offer a dual-band performance, making it more promising for future satellite communications.