Optimizing the G/T ratio of the DSS-13 34-meter beam-waveguide antenna

Calculations using Physical Optics computer software were done to optimize the gain-to-noise-temperature (G/T) ratio of Deep Space Station (DSS)-13, the Deep Space Network's (DSN's) 34-m beam-waveguide antenna, at X-band for operation with the ultra-low-noise amplifier maser system. A better G/T value was obtained by using a 24.2-dB far-field-gain smooth-wall dual-mode horn than by using the standard X-band 22.5-dB-gain corrugated horn.