Synthesis and analysis of shaped ADE reflectors by ray tracing

Axially displaced elliptical (ADE) reflectors have been used frequently in satellite communications due to their potential for high performance. The main advantages of the ADE configuration include high illumination efficiency and low subreflector blockage loss. Furthermore, shaping techniques can be applied to the ADE reflectors to optimize the antenna efficiency and/or to minimize the sidelobe levels. The sidelobe level reduction can be achieved by minimizing the spillover and edge diffraction, as well as by controlling aperture distribution. This paper discusses key issues related to the synthesis and analysis of shaped ADE reflectors.