Radomes for satellite communication earth-stations

A study has been conducted to evaluate the effect of radomes on the performance of satellite communication earth stations from both electrical and mechanical viewpoints. It is shown that in the 4/6 GHz region, attenuation by a water-covered radome is acceptable for most applications, provided the radome material retains its hydrophobic characteristics. In this connection, more data on the aging properties of materials are needed. The cross polarization from a metal space frame radome within the band does not degrade the overall system significantly; rectangular rather than circular cylindrical elements are to be preferred. The increased sidelobe performance due to the radome is tolerable but must be taken into account as system applications change. It is concluded that radomes offer the possibility of insuring higher security and availability of service for satellite communication earth stations in extreme climatic conditions.