Reflector surface deviations in large parabolic antennas

One of the important factors affecting the efficiency of parabolic reflector antennas is the degree to which the surface of the reflector deviates from the true parabolic shape. For a given reflector surface it is also important to locate the focal point of the best-fit paraboloid relative to the existing feed support structure. A simple method is presented for making these measurements, and results are given for a particular 60-ft diameter reflector. Static measurements were made with the antenna axis pointed vertically upwards, and changes were also measured as a function of elevation angle and wind. When the surface errors have a Gaussian distribution relative to the focal point, simple theory indicates that the received power relative to that from a perfect reflecting surface is where is the standard deviation of the surface errors and is the operating wavelength.