Advancing Space Communication with Metallic Antenna Design for CubeSats and Small Spacecrafts

Abstract

This study investigates recent advancements in the design and integration of metallic antennas for CubeSat applications, with particular emphasis on delivery formats. It offers a thorough analysis of the architectures, design processes, performance requirements, and possible uses of metallic antenna systems in CubeSat communications. This review article presents a comprehensive comparison of various metallic antenna designs developed for CubeSat and small spacecraft missions, highlighting their performance characteristics, advantages, and suitability across different orbital environments. In addition, it outlines design specifications that may assist in future antenna development by researchers and engineers. These specifications are considered in the context of evolving CubeSat missions, including prospective interplanetary exploration. Accordingly, factors such as long-distance communication capability, low-power operation, and adequate mechanical resilience are identified as essential design considerations. The study concludes that advances in materials, when combined with systematic design and development approaches, can enable metallic antennas to provide reliable communication solutions for CubeSats and small spacecrafts. Such developments represent a significant step toward establishing sustainable and scalable communication architectures for future space missions.