X-band slotted array test panel and test fixture

Abstract

Data from the development of the X-band slotted array test band, X-band array test fixture, and the X/L-band test fixture for the Support Instrumentation Requirements program are documented. An X-band array was built and installed with an existing L-band module in such a way as to permit antenna pattern measurements in a series of nonplanar configurations that might simulate the thermal effects of nonuniform solar illumination on the array in a space environment. This was accomplished with eight X-band subpanels mounted adjacently on individually adjusted supports which were then co-mounted to a larger frame which served to mount and physically distort the existing L-band module. The L-band module is a heavy electrical breadboard array section that was fabricated to demonstrate the performance capabilities of a slotted waveguide array at L-band frequencies. Drawings, mechanical analysis, and descriptions of test configurations are presented.