Antenna Arraying Techniques in the Deep Space Network

An introduction to antenna Arraying in the Deep Space network Antenna arraying is the combining of the output from severalantennas in order to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of thereceived signal. Now implemented at the Goldstone Complex and otherDeep Space Network (DSN) overseas facilities, antenna arrayingprovides flexible use of multiple antennas to increase data ratesand has enabled NASA's DSN to extend the missions of somespacecraft beyond their planned lifetimes. Antenna Arraying Techniques in the Deep Space Network introducesthe development and use of antenna arraying as it is implemented inthe DSN. Drawing on the work of scientists at JPL, this timelyvolume summarizes the development of antenna arraying and itshistorical background; describes key concepts and techniques;analyzes and compares several methods of arraying; discussesseveral correlation techniques used for obtaining the combinedweights; presents the results of several arraying experiments; andsuggests directions for future work. An important contribution to the scientific literature, AntennaArraying Techniques in the Deep Space Network * Was commissioned by the JPL Deep Space Communications andNavigation Systems (DESCANSO) Center of Excellence * Highlights many NASA-funded technical contributions pertaining todeep space communications systems * Is a part of the prestigious JPL Deep Space Communications andNavigation Series The Deep Space Communications and Navigation Series is authored byscientists and engineers with extensive experience in astronautics,communications, and related fields. It lays the foundation forinnovation in the areas of deep space navigation and communicationsby disseminating state-of-the-art knowledge in key technologies.