Design, Development and Manufacture of 7.3 metre Full Motion Tri- band Antenna for Remote Sensing Applications (S,X,Ka band)

Abstract

The increasing demand for high-resolution, real-time data in remote sensing applications has driven advancements in antenna technology, particularly in the design of large, full-motion systems capable of tracking and communicating with satellites across diverse orbits. This project focuses on the design, development, and manufacture of a 7.3-meter full-motion antenna tailored for remote sensing applications, addressing the need for precision, durability, and adaptability in challenging operational environments. The antenna system is engineered to support a wide range of frequencies, provide high gain, and maintain tracking accuracy under dynamic conditions, making it a critical asset for applications such as environmental monitoring, disaster management, and scientific research.

Introduction

Remote sensing antennas, particularly full motion types, are vital for modern scientific and technological applications including satellite communication, earth observation, weather monitoring, and space exploration. The 7.3-meter full motion antenna project focuses on designing, simulating, prototyping, testing, and producing a high-precision antenna capable of operating across multiple frequency bands (S, X, and Ka bands). This antenna features a parabolic reflector with dual-axis motion control for accurate tracking of satellites and other targets, supporting diverse applications from environmental monitoring and disaster management to defense communications.

The literature review highlights existing full motion antennas, noting a trade-off between size, agility, and frequency versatility. The 7.3-meter antenna aims to balance these factors with advanced materials, multi-band feed systems, and improved motion control to enhance performance. Key system requirements include triband capability, bidirectional communication, automation, and maintainability.

Design choices favor lightweight aluminum alloys for the reflector and steel for structural support to balance durability and weight. Applications cover earth observation (soil, water, urban planning), weather forecasting, and space communication, leveraging the strengths of each frequency band. Technical challenges include integrating triband operation, ensuring precise and rapid full-motion tracking, mitigating signal loss in the Ka-band due to weather, and managing thermal effects to maintain antenna stability and performance.

Conclusion

The primary objective of this project was to design, develop, and manufacture a 7.3-Meter full-motion antenna capable of operating across the S, X, and Ka frequency bands, tailored specifically for remote sensing applications. This ambitious goal was successfully achieved through a systematic approach encompassing theoretical design, simulation, prototyping, and manufacturing phases. The antenna system was engineered to meet stringent performance requirements, including high gain, precise tracking, and operational reliability under diverse environmental conditions. The development of the 7.3-Meter full-motion triband antenna represents a noteworthy contribution to the field of remote sensing technology. One of the most significant advancements is the enhancement of multi-frequency capabilities within a single antenna platform. Traditionally, remote sensing missions have relied on separate antennas for different frequency bands, leading to increased costs, complexity, and logistical challenges. By integrating S, X, and Ka-band operations into one system, this project offers a cost-effective and versatile solution that can support a broad spectrum of applications, including meteorological data collection, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging, and high-resolution earth observation. While this project has achieved its core objectives, several avenues for improvement and expansion remain open for future exploration. These recommendations aim to enhance the antenna’s capabilities, broaden its applications, and address potential limitations identified during the research.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Mr. Prathmesh R. Behere, Mr. L. Srinivasan, Wg.Cdr. PRL Prakash (Retd.). This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.