Arraying Techniques In The Deep Space Network

Abstract

Report discusses performances of number of techniques for combining radio signals received at several antennas to increase signal-to-noise ratio of specified weak signal bearing digital data via phase modulation. Techniques studied: symbol-stream combining, baseband combining, carrier arraying, and full-spectrum combining. Basic idea to synthesize effect of larger antenna or, equivalently, array of antennas. Called "arraying", techniques used in Space Network to extend range of reception of signals from spacecraft traveling beyond distant planets.