Optical design of DVA-1, a prototype antenna for the SKA Mid-Band array

Abstract

The Square Kilometer Array, Mid-Band, is envisioned as a multipurpose radio astronomy telescope of very high sensitivity, containing as many as 2000 reflector antennas. The combined specifications arising from multiple science missions creates a very challenging design problem for the component reflector antennas in the array. This paper describes the optical design of Dish Verification Antenna 1 (DVA-1), the first prototype of an SKA mid-band element being constructed in Canada.