Design of low-profile circularly polarized antenna element for wide-angle scanning array

Liu Jiaxin; Guo Yike; Li Fangwei; Guo Qinggong

doi:10.11884/HPLPB202638.250297

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Article Navigation > High Power Laser and Particle Beams > 2026 > Accepted Manuscript

Liu Jiaxin, Guo Yike, Li Fangwei, et al. Design of low-profile circularly polarized antenna element for wide-angle scanning array[J]. High Power Laser and Particle Beams. doi: 10.11884/HPLPB202638.250297

Citation:

Liu Jiaxin, Guo Yike, Li Fangwei, et al. Design of low-profile circularly polarized antenna element for wide-angle scanning array[J]. High Power Laser and Particle Beams. doi: 10.11884/HPLPB202638.250297

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Design of low-profile circularly polarized antenna element for wide-angle scanning array

doi: 10.11884/HPLPB202638.250297

College of Electronics and Information Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China

Received Date: 2025-08-12
Accepted Date: 2025-12-16
Rev Recd Date: 2025-12-31

Available Online: 2026-01-21

Abstract

Abstract

Background
With the rapid development of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications, there is a pressing need for circularly polarized phased arrays that offer wide-angle scanning capability while maintaining a low profile, which remains a significant challenge in current designs.
Purpose
This study aims to design a low-profile, wide-beam circularly polarized antenna element and its corresponding wide-angle scanning array to address the limitations of narrow scan angles and high profiles in existing solutions.
Methods
A double-layer antenna element was designed, utilizing corner perturbation and cross-slots to achieve left-hand circular polarization, while beamwidth was broadened via an upper parasitic structure and metallic posts based on pattern superposition. A 4×4 array was constructed by rotating these elements, with annular open slots integrated into the ground plane to suppress mutual coupling.
Results
The proposed antenna element exhibits a 3-dB axial ratio beamwidth greater than 175°, a gain beamwidth of 120°, and a profile of only 0.07λ₀. Simulations of the 4×4 array demonstrate a scan coverage of ±60°, with axial ratio consistently below 2 dB and a stable gain fluctuation of 3.38 dB throughout the scanning range.
Conclusions
The designed antenna and array effectively achieve wide-angle circularly polarized scanning with low profile and stable performance, offering a promising solution for LEO satellite communication terminals and other integrated systems requiring wide spatial coverage.
- low-profile,
- wide beam,
- wide axial-ratio beam,
- wide-angle scanning,
- circular polarization

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References(25)

References

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