A detailed analysis of the helical array as a high performance portable ground station antenna

Abstract

Modern satellite operations often require a portable ground station capability. However, the traditional large parabolic dish solidly mounted in concrete is not conducive to portable operation. This work offers the helical array as a viable alternative. A critical literature survey shows what work has been performed by others, and what issues must be addressed so that a feasible helical array design may be put forth. Analysis was performed using data from experiments and from a computer simulation.