Evaluation and Expansion of Scan Coverage Using Non-Planar Phased Arrays

The growing adoption of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations in telecommunications demands antenna systems capable of tracking rapidly moving satellites and performing frequent link handovers. Conventional planar phased arrays, typically used in ground terminals, offer limited scan coverage, which can degrade communication with low elevation satellites. This work evaluates non-planar antenna array configurations to extend scan coverage in array systems with beamforming capability. Four- and five-element non-planar arrays were analysed and compared with equivalent planar structures. The proposed geometries achieved coverage improvements of 39.1% and 32.1%, respectively. Prototypes were fabricated and experimentally characterized in an anechoic chamber, yielding results indicating strong potential (6.5% to 30.6% more coverage) for further scan performance in beamforming systems.