“MINITRACKER” A PORTABLE S-BAND AUTOTRACK ANTENNA

Abstract

The “Minitracker” is designed to be a highly portable S-Band autotrack antenna system, to be used to receive telemetry data from sounding rockets launched at remote launch sites when fixed-site telemetry trackers are not available. “Minitracker” uses a single channel mono-pulse RF feed with a four foot parabolic reflector. The tracker can be disassembled into small subassemblies and packed in plastic cases which can easily be shipped by commercial air freight. The controls consist of a 8 3/4" (22.225 cm) X 19" (48.26 cm) X 19" (48.26 cm) control console and an S-Band Receiver. The OSU “TRADAT” system can be used with “Minitracker” to provide trajectory data. This report will consist of a “Minitracker” system description which will include systems performance specifications and simplified circuit descriptions. The operation procedures section will consist primarily of aids in autotrack acquisition of target vehicles, and a brief description of information available when used in conjunction with the OSU built “TRADAT” system.