Title :
The IRIDIUM(R) main mission antenna concept
Author :
Schuss, J.J. ; Upton, J. ; Myers, B. ; Sikina, T. ; Rohwer, A. ; Makridakas, P. ; Francois, R. ; Wardle, L. ; Kreutel, W. ; Smith, R.
Author_Institution :
Raytheon Co., Sudbury, MA, USA
Abstract :
The design of a novel phased array panel that provides the L-band satellite to ground links for the IRIDIUM global communications system is presented. Key components and aspects of this phased array antenna are discussed, including the beamforming architecture, radiated intermodulation products, the patch radiators, and the T/R module. The strategy for minimizing DC power consumption over a large range of multicarrier RF output power is described. Finally, test results showing compliant array operation are summarized
Keywords :
antenna phased arrays; intermodulation; microstrip antenna arrays; mobile satellite communication; personal communication networks; satellite antennas; DC power consumption; IRIDIUM global communications system; L-band satellite; T/R module; beamforming architecture; ground links; main mission antenna concept; multicarrier RF output power; patch radiators; phased array antenna; phased array panel; radiated intermodulation products; test results; Antenna accessories; Antenna arrays; Array signal processing; Artificial satellites; Energy consumption; Global communication; L-band; Phased arrays; Power generation; Radio frequency;
Conference_Titel :
Phased Array Systems and Technology, 1996., IEEE International Symposium on
Conference_Location :
Boston, MA
Print_ISBN :
0-7803-3232-6
DOI :
10.1109/PAST.1996.566126
