DSS-13 S-band design optimization using the focal-plane method

Abstract

The focal-plane (complex conjugate phase matching) method is used to select the appropriate gain and location of a feed for S-band (2.295 GHz) operation of DSS-13, the new NASA/JPL Deep Space Network (DSN) 34-m beam waveguide (BWG) antenna. It is found empirically that the focal-plane method gives a better design in terms of the G/T figure than previous S-band designs. DSS-13 was designed to work at X- and Ka-bands with 22-dBi corrugated horns placed at F/sub 3/. At S-band, a 22-dBi corrugated feed located at F/sub 3/ does not perform well. The focal-plane method suggested that a 19-dBi corrugated horn might perform better. Using physical-optics and Jacobi-Bessel computer software, this was found to be the case. Using a smaller gain horn also enabled the designer to fit the feed in a vertical position, which makes the mechanical layout of all the waveguide components easier to achieve.<>