A Broadband Linear Array for Space Surveillance

摘要

A broadband linear array with minimum side lobes was developed to meet several special requirements of the U.S. Navy Space Surveillance System. These requirements include simultaneous monitoring of a number of frequencies in the 100 to 500 Mc/s band for the early indentification and separation of satellites launched in multiple sets. The constructed arrays are 5600 feet long, consisting of 1080 biconical aluminum-rod elements above a ground screen. The VSWR is less than 2:1 over the frequency range 100 to 500 Mc/s. An 'offset' harnessing technique was used to provide an amplitude distribution for minimum side lobes while maintaining the equal line lengths required for broadbanding. Good suppression of grating lobes exists to above 300 Mc/s. (Author)