A versatile array fed reflector antenna-Part A: reception

An original antenna subsystem for the European data-relay satellite using a deployable reflector associated to an array feed is described. The reflector pattern is deflected by amplitude and phase control of the elements in the feed array. The general operating principle of the antenna and receiver hardware are described. The same antenna can be used for transmit and receive by a double-patch microstrip element. The results of this study have demonstrated the feasibility of this antenna concept from an overall system point of view (electrical, mechanical, thermal platform, and launch vehicle compatibility). A detailed mass budget of the final design is given for four receive channels, two transmit channels, and an umbrella mesh antenna.<>