DSN Research and Technology Support

The activities at the Venus Station (DSS 13) and the Microwave Test Facility, both operated by the Development Support Group, during the 6-month period ending October 15, 1975, were discussed and progress noted. Successful remote operation of the Venus Station from Pasadena during a pulsar observing track was described, along with significant tracking of the planet Venus in an interferometric planetary radar mode. Completion of the first phase of the demonstration of long-distance (1.6-km) transmission of microwave power was reported, with an RF-to-dc conversion efficiency of better than 80% and 30 kW of dc recovered. Routine transmission of clock synchronization signals to the overseas complexes with 64-m antenna stations was also discussed, and extensive analysis of a reported problem with the DSS 14 HV dc power supply which resulted in excessive ripple voltage interfering with transmitter operation was described.