Techniques for deployable-panel antennas

Abstract

Methods, systems, and devices for deployable-panel antenna arrays are described. An antenna system, such as an antenna system of a communications satellite, may include panels that are rotatably deployable via one or more rotary joints. The panels may each include antenna elements of an antenna array on one face of the panels and, in some examples, solar elements to provide power for operating the antenna system on an opposite face of the panels. The panels may be stowed in a relatively compact configuration, which may be at least partially within a cross-sectional projection of a body portion (e.g., of a communications satellite), and may be deployed by rotating the panels about one or more coupling axes. In the deployed configuration, the panels may form a polygonal or circular shape, such that a surface area available for antenna elements, solar panels, or both, is greater than the cross section of the body.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.