COALA: Conformal Antenna for Launchers

The initial objective of COALA Project was to consider different dielectric materials to design conformal antennas for suborbital launchers. The aim was to substitute some of the materials used in the conformal antennas in Anteral’s portfolio, since they had been discontinued by the supplier and would not be provided as a standard material. 

Background and justification: •Conformal antennas which can be integrated in the avionics of a launcher are a key point for telemetry, safety and GNSS data in launcher applications. Moreover, they minimize aerodynamic drag by being mounted on or embedded in the curved surface of high-performanceaircraft. COALA project combines antennas with low aerodynamic drag with superior RF performance to provide optimal platform performance. Moreover, the project reduces the European dependency to foreign solutions. Achievements and status: •Development of L, S and C band antennas on a standard material (no risk of material discontinuing). •Complete qualification under VEGA environmental specifications. (TRL-8). •Re-design of Miura 1 antennas with superior performance following COALA strategy (TRL-9). •Knowledge and flight Heritage improvement. Benefits: •The project has allowed Anteralto have a TT&C antenna catalogue for launchers with TRL 8-9 •The project has opened to Anteralnew opportunities such as Space Rider program. •The project has trained Antealin the development of antennas in planar technology.