Power density measurements in the near field of the DSS 13 26-meter antenna

Abstract

Power density measurements were made at Deep Space Station (DSS) 13 in the near field of the 26-m antenna to determine if radio frequency (rf) fields generated by the 20-kW transmitters could be responsible for the failure of three solid state rf amplifiers. These amplifiers are used in the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) Radio Spectrum Surveillance System, which is currently located at the site. Measurements were made independently for one transmitter at 7150 MHz, and both transmitters together. Measurement results are tabulated and compared with predicted power densities under the measurement conditions. The results agree with the predictions within a factor of two. The predictions appear to give worst case values. Measurements indicated that amplifier failures are not attributable to the transmitter