Design of a multiband antenna for satellite communications on the move

The trend for military multiband satellite terminals is shifting away from large ground stations to small, mobile terminals that can operate on the move. The multiband antenna described in this paper extends operation to the 20/30/44 GHz bands. The main reflector is 16 inches in diameter and is of the axially displaced elliptical (ADE) type. The feed is supported by a rigid aluminum housing, which aids in achieving a high mechanical resonance frequency for the overall structure. This is important for implementing a high rate mechanical tracking loop. The subreflector is attached to the aluminum feed support using a "feedome" comprised of ROHACELL 110WF foam.