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Paucot_47631800_2023.pdf
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- This thesis investigates the use of CubeSats in antenna array synthesis for satellite-based Earth observation, with a particular focus on GNSS reflectometry applications. It explores CubeSats as an innovative solution to achieve highly directional antennas while reducing mechanical and cost constraints. The study identifies suitable CubeSat configurations for antenna array synthesis and defines quantitative targets for resolution and sidelobe levels near the specular point. A methodology using spiral configurations is proposed and the trade-off between resolution and sidelobe levels is explored. It is shown that such configurations have continuous aperture-like behavior near the main beam and that the size of this zone is predictable. In addition, the thesis addresses challenges related to digital beamforming and radar localization in the glistening zone for Earth imagery production. It discusses synchronization challenges caused by the inability to transmit the local oscillator through a cable and proposes a solution using a master CubeSat that transmits its local oscillator to the rest of the swarm. Three experiments are performed to characterize the system, showing satisfactory estimation accuracy while identifying synchronization problems with variable time spacing between CubeSats.