The AN/FPS-85 Satellite Tracking Phased Array Radar

The AN/FPS-85 radar system is part of the overall Space Detection and Tracking system of the Air Force. This radar is a phased array system incorporating many advanced techniques. It is completely computer controlled to take advantage of the inertialess scanning beams of the phased array. This paper will discuss techniques being used and show pictures of the installation and hardware. Features include: a. Long Range Detection Capability b. High Transmitted power c. Inertialess Electronic Beam Steering d. Multiple Receiving Beam Capability e. High Reliability f. Extreme Flexibility g. Determination of Target Trajectories and Orbits and Maintenance of Ephemerides on Large Numbers of Satellites.