The multiple-beam torus earth station antennas

The multiple-beam torus earth station antenna (MBTA) for satellite communications systems using multiple satellites is analyzed, noting that the performance values not only meet the requirements of Intelsat Earth Station Standard B, but also those of the design features. Many performance advantages are mentioned, such as, low noise temperature, low side lobes, a stationary main structure, frequency versatility, beam steering by feed motion, enhanced overall station reliability, and minimal real estate requirements. The torus antenna, with a nominal 10-m diameter aperture, designed for a 20 degree field-of-view, can generate seven beams, by positioning feeds along the focal arc of the antenna, and it can receive and transmit messages from as many as seven satellites simultaneously at a considerable cost advantage. Possible future applications in communications include the Domsat to Intelsat Interconnect, Diversity Intra-network, and Satellite Outage and Sun Occultation.