Deployable UHF-Helix Antenna (UDAN)
UDAN: Mini-Antenna with Maxi-Performance for Small Sats
HPS delivers Europe´s technical solution to squaring the circle
Small satellite constellations are crucial for the future of New Space, with antenna capabilities being key to their success. Traditionally, smaller satellites meant lower antenna performance which is not commercially viable.
The solution: UDAN (Deployable 10-dBi-class-gain UHF antenna for nano-satellites), a compact 1.5U antenna designed for 2U, 3U and larger CubeSats, measuring just 10x10x15 cm. UDAN offers outstanding performance, achieving 10 dBi minimum between 400-460 MHz, and features an efficient design with a deployed size of 50 cm height and 90 cm diameter. Plans are underway to expand its frequency range to 100-1000 MHz (UHF and VHF), adapting to the diverse needs of communication satellites.
This groundbreaking development is backed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the German Aerospace Center (DLR), funded through ESA’s ARTES programme, driving both efficiency and innovation in the satellite communication sector.
The timeline to watch includes several key milestones: In December 2024, the breadboard deployment was successfully performed (see video). The CDR is slated for March 2025, followed by engineering model production in Q2-Q3 2025. The test campaign and contract closure are planned for Q4 2025, reaching TRL6. The planned follow-on activity includes an in-orbit demonstration in Q2 2026 (TRL9), which will pave the way for commercialization.
With UDAN, HPS is shaping the future of communication for CubeSats, small satellites, and large satellites, ensuring big impact from small spaces.
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UDAN Engineering Model
Features:
- Deployable, conical antenna development for nanosatellites
- Frequencies scalable from 300 MHz to 1 GHz
- Stowable in a 1U cube and a mass < 0.3 kg (only antenna)
- 5 years lifetime and a peak gain > 10 dBi
- Design dimensioning, design and analysis