Configuration Tradeoffs for Satellite Nulling Arrays.

Abstract : This paper reviews many of the factors to be considered in deciding upon the relative locations of the elements of an adaptive nulling uplink array antenna on a communications satellite. Discussed are the implications of the limited field of view, the desired resolution, the required coverage away from the null, the weight of the array and its ease of deployment and the resistance to grouped interference sources. Filled arrays, having a performance essentially identical to that of a multiple beam antenna, are described, followed by thinned arrays with their increased resolution but greater vulnerability to grouped interference sources, and hybrid arrays which combine the two array types in an attempt to reduce this vulnerability. (Author)