Optimum configuration of focal plane arrays for satellite communication

This paper describes an investigation of the focal plane field distribution of an offset reflector antenna. A physical-optics model is developed to calculate the near-field data at the focal plane. A 70 cm offset reflector antenna comparable to a standard satellite TV set has been our study case. As a starting point in our design process, we have investigated the optimal size of the focal plane array (FPA) for offset reflector antennas and achievable scan ranges. This study gives the guidance to the antenna designer for optimal FPA size, the proper F/D_P and the required number of array elements.