Analysis and modeling of thermal effects on the parabolic reflector antenna performance.
Abstract: Large antennas, such as required for radio astronomy or interplanetary probes, or ground stations of satellites, are engineering structures subject to gravity, wind, and thermal strains. The conditions especially the temperature gradient can cause undesired shape deformation, twists, and strain concentration in the structure, which can adversely affect the performance of antenna systems for both pointing and accuracy. In this thesis the thermal effects on the electrical characteristics of the reflector parabolic antenna are studied.