Multi layer planar Ka-band satellite receive antenna with integrated LNA

The scientific payload GeReLEO-SMART will be launched on the German geostationary satellite ""Heinrich-Hertz"". It should prove the technology readiness of a data receive antenna for low earth orbit (LEO) satellites and work as a data relay. The receiving antenna works in the Ka-Band and is composed of a four layer soft substrate PCB with integrated preselector band pass filter and low noise amplifier (LNA). The LNA is mounted in a cavity of the PCB stack and connected by bond wires. This paper gives an overview of the components, their design and expected performance.