COMPASS: Creating next-generation, energy-efficient sensors for aerospace and communications

Modern aircraft and satellite platforms face increasing pressure to reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and enhance safety whilst at the same time incorporating advanced sensor technologies in increasingly constrained spaces.  

Traditional microwave front-end modules are often bulky, consume high levels of energy, and are costly to manufacture. 

The aim of COMPASS was to create a high frequency phased array prototype that could overcome these constraints. This required innovation in materials, packaging, and integration to improve radar and communication system design, particularly at frequencies beyond 18GHz. 

Funded through the Eureka programme (ATI/Innovate UK and Sweden’s Vinnova), the £800,000, 30-month COMPASS project focused on designing a phased array front-end module that integrates multiple transceivers and common system building blocks like amplifiers and filters into a single, compact package. 

A series of material evaluations and high-frequency test patterns were carried out to identify the most suitable solutions for resin flow and fibre behaviour under operational conditions. These were followed by the development of a working demonstrator, which showcased the integration of new packaging technologies and achieved reliable performance at over 18GHz.