Deployable reflector system for satellite applications

A prototype is herein presented for a new mechanism for deploying reflector antennas introduced by the authors in M. Terada et al. (2005, 1999). The prototype, herein referred to as DRSAT (deployable reflector for satellite applications), was constructed using sheet aluminum, a fine metal mesh, an existing feed and low noise block, and a directionally adjustable base. The deployment mechanism and reflector surface were designed and constructed using these base materials. The DRSAT design employs a 39-cm offset reflector antenna, which when collapsed occupies less than 0.03 m³. Computer simulations performed with the program PRAC (parabolic reflector analysis code) (M. Terada, 1999) were conducted to validate the design and assess the impact of surface errors during manufacturing.