An Optimal Beamforming Algorithm for Phased-Array Antennas Used in Multi-Beam Spaceborne Radiometers

O. A. Iupikov, M. V. Ivashina, K. Pontoppidan, P. H. Nielsen, C. Cappellin, Niels Skou, Sten Schmidl Søbjærg, A. Ihle, D. Hartmann, K. v. 't Klooster, P. H. Nielsen

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingArticle in proceedingsResearchpeer-review

    Abstract

    Strict requirements for future spaceborne ocean missions using multi-beam radiometers call for new antenna technologies, such as digital beamforming phased arrays. In this paper, we present an optimal beamforming algorithm for phased-array antenna systems designed to operate as focal plane arrays (FPA) in push-broom radiometers. This algorithm is formulated as an optimization procedure that maximizes the beam efficiency, while minimizing the side-lobe and cross-polarization power in the area of Earth, subject to a constraint on the beamformer dynamic range. The proposed algorithm is applied to a FPA feeding a torus reflector antenna (designed under the contract with the European Space Agency) and tested for multiple beams. The results demonstrate an improved performance in terms of the optimized beam characteristics, yielding much higher spatial and radiometric resolution as well as much closer distance to coast, as compared to the present-day systems.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationProceedings of the 9th European Conference on Antennas and Propagation (EuCAP)
    Number of pages5
    PublisherIEEE
    Publication date2015
    ISBN (Print)788890701856
    Publication statusPublished - 2015
    Event9th European Conference on Antennas and Propagation - Lisbon, Portugal
    Duration: 12 Apr 201517 Apr 2015
    http://www.eucap2015.org/

    Conference

    Conference9th European Conference on Antennas and Propagation
    Country/TerritoryPortugal
    CityLisbon
    Period12/04/201517/04/2015
    Internet address

    Keywords

    • Radiometers
    • Reflector antenna
    • Phase array feed

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