Evolution of the large Deep Space Network antennas

Author

Imbriale, William A.

Author_Institution

Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Technol., Pasadena, CA, USA

Volume

33

Issue

6

fYear

1991

Firstpage

7

Lastpage

19

Abstract

The evolution of the largest antenna of the US NASA Deep Space Network (DSN) is described. The design, performance analysis, and measurement techniques, beginning with its initial 64-m operation at S-band (2295 MHz) in 1966 and continuing through the present Ka-band (32-GHz) operation at 70 m, is described. Although their diameters and mountings differ, these parabolic antennas all employ a Cassegrainian feed system, and each antenna dish surface is constructed of precision-shaped perforated-aluminum panels that are secured to an open steel framework.<>

Keywords

radionavigation; radiotelescopes; reflector antennas; 2295 MHz; 32 GHz; 64 m; 70 m; Al; Cassegrainian feed system; EHF; Ka-band; NASA; S-band; UHF; USA; antenna dish surface; design; diameters; large Deep Space Network antennas; measurement techniques; mountings; open steel framework; parabolic antennas; performance analysis; precision-shaped perforated-aluminum panels; radar-astronomy; radioastronomy; radionavigation; Aluminum; Antenna feeds; Antennas and propagation; Australia; Laboratories; NASA; Propulsion; Receiving antennas; Space technology; Space vehicles;

fLanguage

English

Journal_Title

Antennas and Propagation Magazine, IEEE

Publisher

ieee

ISSN

1045-9243

Type

jour

DOI

10.1109/74.107350

Filename

107350