Electronic Tracking Systems for Satellite Ground Stations

A new tracking technique for reflector antenna configurations is described. Using simple waveguide components in the primary feed chain, mode conversion is employed to induce a beam squint in the secondary pattern of the antenna. The principle of operation is described and various salient features identified. A prototype antenna system incorporating electronic beam steering has been field evaluated successfully under operational conditions and results are described. The technique can be used with conventional receivers and a variety of system configurations.