Space based lens vs. corporate antenna distortion comparison

This paper presents requirements for a space-based radar antenna, followed with design concepts developed for a lens antenna and a corporate array configuration, that meet a set of specified requirements. Error calibration and compensation are assumed to be possible at measurable points on both assemblies and that it is possible to calibrate and compensate distortion errors in software. Surface distortion errors are developed for a set of the most probable error situations. This leads to the development of parametrics that route distortion errors to electrical performance. These are described and incorporated into an analytical tool, which make it possible to vary the correction accuracy and then evaluate the overall performance. The analytical tool is used to trade-off requirements, calibration methods and calibration benefits.