Advances in multibeam satellite antenna technology

This paper surveys the state of the art in multibeam antenna development as applicable to communication satellites. It defines three basic forms of multibeam antennas - those providing space diversity, polarization diversity, and variable-shaped beams. The use of lenses, reflectors, and phased arrays in multibeam configurations is described. Finally, hardware developments in the field are surveyed, including the LES-7 waveguide lens, more recent experimental TEM and waveguide lenses, a dual K-band reflector, and offset-fed reflectors for the Intelsat IV-A and V satellites.