Powering Satellites by a Combination of Solar and Microwave Energy Harvesting

Introduction

POWERSAT focuses on scavenging the unexploited solar infrared (IR) spectrum by providing an original THz (10-400 THz) energy harvesting platform, thus completing the function of photovoltaic cells. It also aims to harvest the microwave spillover losses from satellite antennas and transform them into a DC power supply.

Combined Platform

POWERSAT will deliver an original solar-microwave combined platform based on rectennas to harvest a significant portion of the IR radiation coming from the sun and the spillover electric field radiated by satellite antennas in four main bands:

1. C-band (4-8 GHz)
2. X-band (8.2-12.4 GHz)
3. Ku-band (12-18 GHz)
4. K-band (18-27 GHz)

Applications of Harvested Energy

This harvested energy will be employed to fuel low-power embedded electronics within satellites, including components like:

• Low-noise amplifiers
• Various sensors
• Oscillators

Moreover, antennas designed for energy harvesting can also facilitate efficient and low-power inter-satellite links (ISLs).

Satellite Communication

Satellites are often arranged in constellations, flying in formation as they orbit Earth. In such configurations, satellites can establish communication links with neighboring satellites using RF or laser links. These ISLs enable satellites to connect with others, allowing data to traverse different gateways within the satellite network.

Demonstrators

To achieve this, POWERSAT will propose five demonstrators:

1. A solar energy harvesting platform integrating micro/nanoantennas and MIM diode-based rectifiers.
2. Four demonstrators integrating several rectennas, each suitable for one of the four microwave bands mentioned earlier.

These same antenna arrays will be instrumental in enabling low-power backscattering communications.

Final Goal

The final goal is to provide a seamless integration of the newly developed rectennas into satellite electronic systems. This integration will potentially allow for the future partial replacement of satellite solar cells, thus lowering the overall weight of satellites and, consequently, the launch costs.