Advanced multiple beam antenna system supporting multiple satellite communications services

This paper presents advanced antenna system suitable for multi-band communications satellites that could simultaneously support multiple services such as direct broadcast, Ka broadband and military communications. A multi-aperture reflector antenna system that could generate multiple spot beams simultaneously over five discrete frequency bands that are spread over more than an octave band is presented. A smooth-wall high efficiency multi-mode horn that operates over 12.3 GHz to 30.0 GHz has been developed. Results of the multi-beam antenna system supporting uplink and downlink frequencies for forward DBS, reverse DBS, and Ka broadband services are discussed.