Circular polarization feed with dual-frequency OMT-based turnstile junction

Abstract

This paper presents the development of a circular-polarization feed comprising an OMT (orthomode transducer) and a corrugated horn. The OMT works in two frequency bands with polarization redundancy providing right- and left-hand circular polarizations (RHCP and LHCP). The operation is done at the typical communication transmitting and receiving C-band frequencies. The feed horn is used to illuminate a reflector antenna, the surface of which is shaped to provide domestic, regional, or global coverage from a geostationary satellite. The challenge in the design consisted in obtaining a mechanically compact feed assembly with low mass, while being compliant with the specified electrical performance requirements, since this device was developed for a satellite application.