Abstract
The growing demand for compact, high-performance antennas in satellite systems necessitates innovative design strategies for ultra-wideband (UWB) operation. Microstrip patch antennas (MPAs) are widely used for satellite communications on account of their low profile and ease of fabrication, but their inherently narrow bandwidth limits their applicability in UWB systems. This paper details a novel methodology for the design of a compact UWB MPA using a two-stage binary genetic algorithm (BGA). Unlike conventional approaches that rely on fixed slots or predetermined patch modifications, the proposed approach discretizes the radiating patch into an array of binary-encoded cells, enabling the algorithm to retain only those regions that enhance impedance bandwidth while maintaining a compact geometry. Fabricated on an FR4 substrate with dimensions of \(20\times 30\times 1.6\) \(\text {mm}^{3}\), HFSS simulations indicate an ultra-wide operating range of 3.66–15.74 GHz (12.08 GHz bandwidth). Experimental measurements confirm that the antenna effectively covers the C-, X-, and Ku-bands, with measured frequency ranges of 4.49–7.13 GHz, 8.2–10 GHz, and 11.03–15.52 GHz, respectively. These results demonstrate its suitability for satellite communications, as well as UWB wireless applications. The design demonstrates stable radiation patterns and consistent gain across the operating band, underscoring its suitability as a compact, efficient, and reliable antenna for satellite and broadband communication systems. Compared to previously published MPA designs, the proposed antenna achieves ultra-wideband characteristics while maintaining a reduced physical footprint and simplified configuration, resulting in an enhanced balance between miniaturization, bandwidth, and overall performance.
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All authors were involved in the study’s conceptualization, methodology, and investigation of the study. Validation was conducted by AZ and SI. The first draft was written by FB with valuable input from SI, AK, KAB, and LW, who contributed feedback on prior versions. All authors reviewed and approved the final manuscript.
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Bennioui, FZ., Khabba, A., Ait Bouslam, K. et al. Two-Stage Binary Genetic Algorithm Optimization of an Ultra-Wideband Rectangular Patch Antenna for Satellite Applications. J. Electron. Mater. 55, 3311–3324 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11664-026-12681-9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11664-026-12681-9