Dual phased-array payload concept

A dual phased array payload architecture for use onboard a communications satellite, said architecture comprising:

• a phased array receive antenna including a plurality of individual radiating elements distributed in a predetermined configuration, each of said individual radiating elements selectively adjustable in phase and amplitude to provide scanning beams for receiving information transmitted from the ground in an uplink beam;
• a packet switch connected to said phased array receive antenna, said packet switch including a set of inputs and a set of outputs, said inputs selectively connectable to said set of outputs;
• a phased array transmit antenna connected to said packet switch, said phased array transmit antenna including a plurality of individual radiating elements distributed in a predetermined configuration, each of said individual radiating elements having a controllable amplitude and phase excitation to generate and electronically steer downlink beams;
• and
• a payload computer connected to said packet switch, said payload computer including outputs controlling the connection of said set of inputs to said set of outputs, controlling the scanning of said radiating elements in said phased array receive antenna, and controlling the amplitude and phase excitation of said radiating elements in said phased array transmit antenna.