Cryogenic Cooling to Reduce Antenna Size for Multi-band Satellite Antenna Applications

As a figure of merit for the receive performance of an antenna and receiver system, Gain over Temperature (G/T) drives the signal to noise performance of the communications system. In order to decrease antenna size and maintain G/T, the T term, which is the system noise temperature, must be lowered. We propose to study the feasibility of installing a C-band cryogenic cooled LNA with improved noise performance. We will concept a new, smaller antenna and define the weight savings realized with a smaller antenna and radome. If awarded the Phase I option, we will develop concept antenna pedestal designs with the optimal blend of composite and metal structures. The final size and weight budget will be used to develop concepts for alternate placement of the new multi-band antennas on the targeted ship class superstructures, out of the downwash zones of our latest naval aircraft.