Light-weight transportable 2.4-meter tri-band antenna system for commercial and military satellites

An essential element of rapid response to contingencies is the ability to quickly establish satellite communications with the deployed forces. The contingency environment embodies factors such as little or no warning, a short response time, high visibility and small tolerance for failure. A key to success under these conditions is the ability for rapid transportation and installation of reliable communications services. This paper discusses the performance of a commercial, transportable tri-band satellite antenna system designed and constructed for short assembly times. The system consists of a model 62A-6 light-weight, tri-band antenna system that supports Intelsat and DSCS operation over the SHF frequency spectrum. The 62A-6 system consists of a 2.4-meter diameter reflector with an offset feed system, an elevation-over-azimuth positioner and a model C-30 antenna controller. The "flyaway" antenna breaks down into nine separate reflector panels. The reflector, motorized positioner, and feedhorn antenna assemblies are transportable in transit cases as standard air freight on commercial or military aircraft. The reflector consists of composite material and honeycomb sandwich construction to produce a lightweight, but extremely stiff reflector.