Antenna deployment for Automatic Packet Reporting System of nanosatellite using Global Positioning System as a height sensor

Abstract

In this research, we describe the design and manufacture of the monopole antenna for Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) as a payload of nanosatellite and the deployment technique of the antenna. The monopole structure made of metal ribbon rolled in a square shape, making it easy to be folded and unfolded. Satellite structure made of metal gives an advantage to the additional effect of the gain. The obtained VSWR is less than 1.5. The antenna has omnidirectional radiation pattern with HPBW 77.63° in eliptic polarization. Deployment technique has average time to deploy the antenna in 3.88 minutes. Using Global Positioning System (GPS) as a height sensor can provide the right time to activate heating circuit for cutting the nylon which deploy the antenna in the expected altitude.