Citation
Abstract
Phase drift in the radio frequency (RF) signals distributed to individual antennas of an uplink array degrades the array phase calibration vector, resulting in loss of combined power at the spacecraft. Since the calibration vector generally is not applied to the uplink array right after calibration, small changes in the electrical characteristics of the ground distribution system over time could result in significant changes in phase, which must be measured and removed in order to preserve the integrity of the calibration vector. This article describes practical techniques for determining the electrical length of the fiber-optic distribution system in real time, and applies these measurements to estimate unwanted changes in RF phase that could impact uplink array operation if left uncorrected.
Details
- Volume
- 42-167
- Published
- November 15, 2006
- Pages
- 1–15
- File Size
- 431.5 KB