Dielectric loaded horn feed arrays for reflections in shaped beam applications

With satellite applications in mind, the authors have analyzed an array of dielectric loaded horns. They outline some of the methods used and present preliminary results, including a shaped beam for an AUSSAT satellite. Reflection and mutual coupling, dielectric loss, and radiation are considered. The horn analysis software was used to design a shaped beam to cover New Zealand from the AUSSAT geostationary positions of 156 degrees E and 160 degrees E. An optimized transit beam at 12.5 GHz, obtained with a 1.5-m offset parabolic reflector and a seven-element feed array, is shown.<>