Metrology for Antenna, Wireless, and Space Systems

Project Goals

Antenna measurement setup

To maintain and develop the standards and methods for measuring critical performance parameters for satellite and other critical antenna systems, such as those associated with public safety.

Background

Satellite communication is a finely tuned technology requiring accurate measurements of antenna gain, noise temperature, G/T (system gain divided by system temperature), and EIRP (effective isotropic radiated power) to ensure optimum performance. Ground stations and test ranges that monitor satellite performance require traceability to NIST standards. Measured performance is used to determine incentive payments to contractors or charges billed to users so the results produced by these facilities must be of the highest accuracy. New capabilities are needed to support anticipated technologies, such as anti-collision radars. NIST traceability is also required by law enforcement agencies to ensure the accuracy of their speed measurement devices - down-the-road and across-the-road radar, and lidar.

Tasks

Define anti-collision radar system testing requirements and evaluate existing metrology for system parameter measurements
Develop metrology and artifact standards for automobile and aircraft anti-collision radars
Develop thermal holographic methods for large antenna system diagnostics
Provide a working lidar speed-simulator system to be used at an IACP laboratory to be established at the University of North Florida
Develop and provide a working across-the-road radar speed simulator

Additional Information