Multifunction Phase Array Antennas

Space-based radars for detection and precision tracking of air and ground targets over the entire battlefield require extremely large apertures. Toyon Research proposes to develop an innovative active lens antenna concept that promises excellent RF and DCpower efficiency as well as excellent thermal, mass, and packaging efficiency. The proposed research will explore the use of component technologies developed on the TRAM program and other efforts in the active lens application. The ultimate goal will be todevelop an antenna system with very large bandwidth capable of meeting tactical air-and ground surveillance requirements. The proposed research will develop a new generation of space-based radars to detect and track mobile targets with higher performanceand lower cost than previous designs. A constellation of such radars will give the U.S. a better picture of trouble spots around the globe and support immediate, pinpoint response when intervention is appropriate.