A 6-m mesh reflector antenna for SMAP: Modeling the RF performance of a challenging Earth-orbiting instrument

A complete and accurate RF model of the SMAP observatory has been presented in this paper. Extreme care has been used in modeling all the important parts of the spacecraft to provide reliable information about the performance of the instrument under various conditions. An ongoing work of RF model refinement based on the constant development of the spacecraft and instrument is also being carried on to keep the model up to date. Field of view studies have been performed and mechanical and thermal deformations are also being considered. Since radiation pattern measurements of the actual antenna are not planned, the development of this RF model represents a very important milestone for the mission.