Design of a UHF Radio System for Small LEO Satellites

Abstract

The thesis concerns the design and prototype construction of a UHF half-duplex radio system, intended for use on board a small student satellite. The assignment is a continuance of a project assignment done during the fall of 2006, concerning the outline and specification of a new student satellite project at NTNU. The report details performance-deciding parameters of satellite communication systems operating at UHF frequencies, and fundamental information theory. Theory and application of RF design is discussed, along with complications in electronic engineering due to space environment factors. The report goes on to describe the design process and prototype development of a UHF transceiver intended for use in small, low power LEO satellites.