A high-gain trireflector antenna configuration for beam scanning

A trireflector antenna configuration is presented that allows for beam scanning with minimum reflector motion, no feed motion, and high primary aperture utilization for all scan directions. Such characteristics are particularly desirable for geostationary satellite applications. Omnidirectional beam scanning is achieved by rotational movement of a relatively small tertiary reflector about a fixed point such that a simple two-axis gimbal can be employed. The trireflector configuration was specifically designed for high-gain passive remote sensing applications, and therefore the emphasis is placed on high-gain beam scanning; however, the concepts developed are equally valid for low-gain applications and can find use in a broad range of applications that require rapid beam scanning and simple reflector motion.