Space-based tethered phased-array antenna
First Claim
1. A phased-array antenna for use in a space-based radar system that radiates a narrow, steerable, electromagnetic beam in a specified direction to detect, identify and track targets on or near the surface of the earth, said antenna comprising:
- a plurality of antenna elements having a predetermined spacing from one another;
interconnecting means for operatively interconnecting said antenna elements to form an array having a proximal end operatively connected to a satellite and a distal end, said distal end being unsupported and unfixed; and
communications means disposed within said interconnecting means for conveying radar signals between said satellite and said antenna elements.
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Accused Products
Abstract
An unsupported, flexible, quasi-linear phased-array antenna within a space-based radar system which is tethered to a host satellite in free space. The antenna is formed by a plurality of antenna elements which are connected serially along a common axis. The antenna points in an Earth-pointing direction via gravity-gradient forces acting thereon. The phased-array antenna is capable of radiating a narrow electromagnetic beam in the end-fire direction along the array either in a spot or conical beam for detecting, identifying and tracking moving targets on or near the Earth'"'"'s surface. According to one aspect of the invention, the phased-array antenna forms an elongated conductor which moves through a magnetic field in space for generating electrical power.
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Citations
11 Claims
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1. A phased-array antenna for use in a space-based radar system that radiates a narrow, steerable, electromagnetic beam in a specified direction to detect, identify and track targets on or near the surface of the earth, said antenna comprising:
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a plurality of antenna elements having a predetermined spacing from one another; interconnecting means for operatively interconnecting said antenna elements to form an array having a proximal end operatively connected to a satellite and a distal end, said distal end being unsupported and unfixed; and communications means disposed within said interconnecting means for conveying radar signals between said satellite and said antenna elements. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
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8. A phased-array antenna for use within a space-based radar system which provides a steerable, end-fire, electromagnetic beam to detect, identify and track targets on or near the surface of the earth, comprising:
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a plurality of antenna elements having a predetermined spacing from one another and receiving phase shifted radar signals so as to produce said beam; and interconnecting means for operatively connecting said first and second antenna elements to form an array having a proximal end operatively connected to a satellite and a distal end, said distal end being unsupported and unfixed. - View Dependent Claims (9, 10, 11)
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Specification