Applications of telemetry arraying in the DSN

Abstract

The individual large antennas at a DSN complex were used in arrayed configurations to improve the telemetry return from very distant spacecraft. The technique was applied to support critical spacecraft events when good telemetry is most important. An expanded array configuration, will be provided to support the 1986 Voyager encounter with Uranus. The development and use of arraying by the DSN for spacecraft mission support is reviewed. Application of the experience to the 1986 design is discussed.