Ku/Ka bands precipitation radar antenna: half-scale offset cylindrical reflector model [spaceborne]

Precipitation radar provides new and exciting data on 3D rain structures, for a variety of scientific uses. The second generation spaceborne precipitation radar is a proposed profiling radar that will enhance the capabilities aboard the TRMM satellite. The proposed radar system antenna is a 5.3 m offset parabolic cylindrical reflector antenna which has dual frequency operation at 13.6 GHz and 35 GHz. In order to demonstrate the technological readiness of the concept, this paper focusses on a half-scale model of 2.65 m operating at Ku and Ka bands, with an evaluation of the antenna feed and reflector antenna system.