Large active retrodirective arrays for solar power satellitesAn active retrodirective array (ARA) transmits a beam toward the apparent source of an illuminating signal called the pilot. The array produces the RF power. Retrodirectivity is achieved by retransmitting from each element of the array a signal whose phase is the 'conjugate' of that received by the element. Application of the ARA to the solar power satellite concept has been proposed. A method of providing a reference phase is described, called 'central phasing', which eliminates the need for a rigid structure ordinarily needed in order to realize accurate retrodirectivity.
Document ID
19790032591
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Chernoff, R. (California Institute of Technology, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1978
Subject Category
Space Communications, Spacecraft Communications, Command And Tracking
Meeting Information
Meeting: Radiation energy conversion in space; Conference