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The novel mixer offers wideband and sub-harmonic conversion capabilities for enhanced signal processing across a broad frequency range. The mixer operates at 470-600 GHz and includes a LO waveguide to allow 265-300 GHz input signal and a radio frequency (RF) waveguide for the 470-600 GHz operation. The LO and RF signal multiply and down-convert the RF signal to an IF signal to a much lower frequencies for further digitization. The mixer is designed on a gold and quartz substrate for a lower dielectric constant. The filter design uses a triangular patch resonator-based low-pass filter to reduce the size of the mixer as well as isolates the LO signal and the wide IF signal. Additionally, an IF filter, RF filter, Schottky diode, LO, and RF probes are integrated into a single chip to further reduce the dimensions of the mixer. The invention also leverages an antiparallel diode orientation, where the LO frequency is half of the RF input. This LO signal is amplified and multiplied up to 265-300 GHz to provide an input power of 3-5 mW to pump the antiparallel mixer. The technology offers significant advantages in remote sensing and high-speed communications, enabling simultaneous detection of multiple molecular species and enhancing the efficiency of submillimeter-wave heterodyne spectrometers. The wideband functionality achieves high data rates required in emerging 6G networks and offers exceptional sensitivity, with prototype tests showing a conversion loss below 12 dB and noise temperatures under 4000 K at 470 GHz. The integration of components such as filters and diodes into a single chip reduces system size and complexity, contrasting with traditional multi-chip setups. The design is scalable across frequencies from 1 GHz-1 THz with minimal modifications, with the system's form factor inversely scaling with frequency. These features make the technology versatile for applications in environmental monitoring, planetary exploration, radar systems, and advanced communication systems.

The P-band antenna array is built from rows and columns of antenna elements for the purpose of allowing beam steering up to the maximum desirable angle without incurring grating lobes in the radiation patterns. For flexible mission planning, a large array can be built from several of the small, panel-like elements. The elements are deployable from a folded or stacked stowed configuration during launch, arranged side by side during operation. Each antenna element is itself a fully functional small antenna array. The number of panels can be chosen as dictated by the mission objectives and budget. Three geometries were designed and tested. Geometry 1 features non-planar metal structures with minimal dielectric support, where the back cavity is closed. Geometry 2 features non-planar metal structures with minimal composite sheet dielectric support, but with an open cavity. Both geometries avoid large flat sheets, which are vulnerable to bending, thereby increasing the mechanical stiffness of the structure while using only thin sheet metal and maintaining an exceptionally low mass-to-size ratio. Geometry 3 features planar metal structures, with sandwich composite dielectric support and an open cavity. While it does not benefit from the mechanical stiffness utilized in non-planar designs, the planar sandwich structure increase robustness and reduces the cost of fabrication. All element geometries have wideband capabilities and are dual polarized. Although designed for space and planetary exploration, the P-band antenna is also valuable for various terrestrial use cases. The P-band antenna array is at technology readiness level (TRL) 5 (component and/or breadboard validation in relevant environment) and is available for patent licensing.