Spacecraft Multi-Beam and Contoured-Beam Antennas
Abstract
High-gain spacecraft antennas with multiple beams and contoured beams are key components in satellite communications and direct broadcast systems. This is reflected on the latest generation of communications satellites, where the antenna subsystem is the largest subsystem with its weight of more than 300 kg. The antennas achieve a large communications capacity through multiple frequency re-uses and may be reconfigured to serve different coverage areas. The paper overviews the current multi-beam and contoured-beam antenna technology. Different implementations, reflector or lens with feed array or direct radiating array, are considered. The emphasis is placed upon systems with offset paraboloidial reflectors. The limitations of the offset reflector with respect to beam scanning and cross polarization are reviewed. computer-aided design procedures and design examples are presented.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADP005666
Entities
People
- P. Balling