A contour generation algorithm applied to antenna patterns

Algorithms for the generation of contour plots as applied to antenna pattern data obtained during in-orbit tests of communications satellites are described. These contours are used for operational planning and to verify spacecraft in-orbit compliance with specifications. These algorithms have been developed to enable contour generation from data which are nonuniform and sparsely spaced along the azimuth and elevation planes in spacecraft antenna coordinates, conditions under which conventional contour generation algorithms are not entirely applicable. These simple algorithms generate contours which can be further enhanced with a graphics editor, are general in nature, and can be applied to other types of data.