Near-field testing of the 15-meter model of the hoop column antenna
Abstract
The technical results from near-field testing of the 15-meter model of the hoop column antenna at the Martin Marietta Denver Aerospace facility are documented. The antenna consists of a deployable central column and a 15 meter hoop, stiffened by cables into a structure with a high tolerance repeatable surface and offset feed location. The surface has been configured to have four offset parabolic apertures, each about 6 meters in diameter, and is made of gold plated molybdenum wire mesh. Pattern measurements were made with feed systems radiating at frequencies of 7.73, 11.60, 2.27, 2.225, and 4.26 (all in GHz). This report (Volume 1) covers the testing from an overall viewpoint and contains information of generalized interest for testing large antennas. This volume discusses the deployment of the antenna in the Martin Facility and the measurements to determine mechanical stability and trueness of the reflector surface, gives the test program outline, and gives a synopsis of antenna electromagnetic performance. Three techniques for measuring surface mechanical tolerances were used (theodolites, metric cameras, and near-field phase), but only the near-field phase approach is included. The report also includes an error analysis. A detailed listing of the antenna patterns are provided for the 2.225 Ghz feed in Volume 3 of this report, and for all other feeds in Volume 2.
- Publication:
-
Martin Marietta Corp. Report
- Pub Date:
- March 1986
- Bibcode:
- 1986mmc..rept.....H
- Keywords:
-
- Antenna Radiation Patterns;
- Apertures;
- Hoop Column Antennas;
- Large Space Structures;
- Near Fields;
- Parabolic Antennas;
- Stiffening;
- Cables (Ropes);
- Error Analysis;
- Gold;
- Metric Photography;
- Molybdenum;
- Stability;
- Theodolites;
- Wire Cloth;
- Communications and Radar