Deployable center fed antenna

Abstract

A deployable center fed antenna system for terrestrial and spacecraft applications has a reflector having a reflector center aperture; a first net extending from a first net center aperture to a first net perimeter edge, said first net outer surface supporting said reflector; a second net extending from a second net center aperture to a second net perimeter edge; a boom passing through said first net center aperture, said second net center aperture and said reflector center aperture; a truss disposed about said boom, said truss coupled to said first net at a plurality of points, said truss coupled to said second net at plurality of points; and a truss deployer operable to deploy said truss between a truss stowed condition and a truss deployed condition, said truss in said truss deployed condition tensioning said first net and said second net.

Description

[0001] DEPLOYABLE CENTER FED ANTENNA

[0002] This International Patent Cooperation Treaty Patent Application is a continuation of United States Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 18 / 935,175, filed November 1, 2024, hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0003] I. GOVERNMENT LICENSE RIGHTS

[0004] This invention was made with government support under Subcontract Number 0000016977 under Prime Contract No. F A9453-20-C-0031 awarded by Air Force Research Laboratory. The government has certain rights in this invention.

[0005] II. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0006] The disclosure generally relates to antenna systems. In particular the disclosure relates to a deployable center fed antenna system for terrestrial and spacecraft applications.

[0007] III. BACKGROUND

[0008] Current configurations of offset-fed antennas have high moments of inertia which correspondingly requires spacecraft to include attitude control systems capable of applying corresponding forces to control space craft orbit position, absolute attitude, rate and orientation. Attitude control systems capable of offsetting high moments of inertia require increased spacecraft size, weight, and power along with the attendant increased costs.

[0009] By comparison, use of a center-fed antenna can result in a reduction in moments of inertia of greater than 75% over offset fed antenna configurations. The lower moments of inertia can allow spacecraft to perform increasingly demanding maneuvers while having less size, weight and power and at lower cost.

[0010] There is a need for spacecraft which include agile, high stiffness center fed reflectors of direct illumination, cassegrain and axially displaced ellipse architectures that allow for rapid scanning and slewing maneuvers with scalable reflector apertures and having performance capabilities in the ultra-high and Ka radio band frequencies with minimal radio frequency interference from low noise amplifiers and power amplifiers and antenna stiffening components.

[0011] IV. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, a broad object of particular embodiments of the invention can provide a deployable center fed antenna including one or more of: a reflector having a reflector center aperture; a first net extending from a first net center aperture to a first net perimeter edge, wherein the first net having a first net inner surface opposite a first net outer surface, wherein the first net outer surface supports the reflector; a second net extending from a second net center aperture to a second net perimeter edge, wherein the second net having a second net inner surface opposite a second net outer surface, wherein the second net inner surface faces the first net inner surface; a boom disposed within the first net center aperture, the second net center aperture and the reflector center aperture; a truss disposed circumferentially about the boom, wherein the truss couples to the first net at a plurality of points along the first net perimeter edge, wherein the truss couples to the second net at plurality of points along the second net perimeter edge; a truss deployer operable to deploy the truss between a truss stowed condition and a truss deployed condition, wherein the truss in the truss deployed condition tensions the first net and the second net to dispose the reflector in an operable configuration; and a feed operable to directly illuminate the reflector or indirectly illuminate the reflector through a sub -reflector.

[0012] Another broad object of particular embodiments of the invention can be to provide a method of making a deployable center fed antenna including one or more of: extending a reflector from a reflector center aperture to a reflector perimeter edge; extending a first net from a first net center aperture to a first net perimeter edge, wherein the first net having a first net inner surface opposite a first net outer surface, wherein the first net outer surface supports the reflector; extending a second net from a second net center aperture to a second net perimeter edge, wherein the second net having a second net inner surface opposite a second net outer surface, wherein the second net inner surface faces the first net inner surface; disposing a boom within said first net center aperture, said second net center aperture, and said reflector center aperture; disposing a truss circumferentially about said boom; coupling the truss to the first net at a plurality of points along the first net perimeter edge; coupling the truss to the second net at plurality of points along the second net perimeter edge; and coupling a truss deployer to the truss, wherein the truss deployer operates to deploy the truss between a truss stowed condition and a truss deployed condition, wherein the truss in the truss deployed condition tensions the first net and the second net.

[0013] Another broad object of particular embodiments of the invention can be to provide a method of using a deployable center fed antenna including one or more of: deploying a center fed antenna from an antenna stowed condition, wherein the center fed antenna comprises: a reflector having a reflector center aperture; a first net extending from a first net center aperture to a first net perimeter edge, wherein the first net having a first net inner surface opposite a first net outer surface, wherein the first net outer surface supports the reflector; a second net extending from a second net center aperture to a second net perimeter edge, wherein the second net having a second net inner surface opposite a second net outer surface, wherein the second net inner surface facing the first net inner surface; a boom disposed within the first net center aperture, the second net center aperture, and the reflector center aperture; a truss circumferentially disposed about the boom, wherein the truss includes: a plurality of battens each having a batten length disposed between a batten first end and a batten second end, wherein the batten first ends coupled to the first net at a plurality of points along the first net perimeter edge, wherein the batten second ends coupled to the second net at plurality of points along the second net perimeter edge; a first plurality of longerons rotatably connecting adjacent pairs of the plurality of batten first ends; a second plurality of longerons rotatably connecting adjacent pairs of the plurality of batten second ends; a plurality of diagonal members, wherein one of the plurality of diagonal members rotatably connecting one of the plurality of batten first ends to an adjacent one of the plurality of batten second ends, wherein another one of the plurality of diagonal members rotatably connects the adjacent one of the plurality of batten second ends to another adjacent one of the plurality of batten first ends; operating a truss deployer to circumferentially extending the truss away from the boom; and tensioning by circumferential extension of the truss the first net and the second net to achieve an operational configuration of the reflector to receive or transmit radio frequency signals.

[0014] V. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the stowed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system.

[0016] Figure 2 is a top plan view of the embodiment of the center fed antenna in the stowed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system.

[0017] Figure 3 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the stowed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system.

[0018] Figure 4 is first end elevation view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the stowed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system. Figure 5 is second end elevation view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the stowed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system.

[0019] Figure 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the deployed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system.

[0020] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the deployed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system.

[0021] Figure 8 is first side elevation view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the deployed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system.

[0022] Figure 9 is bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the deployed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system.

[0023] Figure 10 is a second side elevation view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the deployed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system.

[0024] Figure 11 is a cross section view 11-11 shown in Figure 10 of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the deployed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system.

[0025] Figure 12A is an illustration of the primary components of a truss of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the deployed condition with broken line bubbles 12B and 12C identifying the location of portions of the truss enlarged in Figures 12B and 12C.

[0026] Figure 12B is enlargement of a portion of the truss shown in Figure 12A in broken line bubble 12B.

[0027] Figure 12C is an enlargement of a portion of the truss shown in Figure 12A broken line bubble 12C.

[0028] Figure 12D is an enlarged cross section 12D-12D shown in Figure 12B of a spoke coupled to a truss batten. Figure 13 A is an illustration of the primary components of a truss of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the deployed condition with broken line bubble 13B identifying the location of a portion of the truss enlarged in Figure 13B.

[0029] Figure 13B is an illustration of an embodiment of truss deployer spooler.

[0030] Figure 13C is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the truss deployer.

[0031] Figure 14A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna including the first spoke interface with the broken line bubble 14B.

[0032] Figure 14B is an enlargement of the first spoke interface included within broken line bubble 14B.

[0033] Figure 14C is bottom view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna including the second spoke interface with the broken line bubble 14B.

[0034] Figure 14D is an enlargement of the second spoke interface included within broken line bubble 14D.

[0035] Figure 14E is an enlargement of a spoke deployer depicted in Figure 14B.

[0036] Figure 14F is a cross section 14F-14F shown in Figure 14E.

[0037] Figure 15A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a center fed antenna boom having a boom inner segment telescopingly engaged in a boom outer segment in a boom stowed condition.

[0038] Figure 15B is a side elevation view of the center fed antenna boom having a boom inner segment telescopingly engaged in a boom outer segment in a boom stowed condition.

[0039] Figure 15C is an exploded perspective view of the center fed antenna boom.

[0040] Figure 15D is an enlarged view of the portion of Figure 15C depicted in the broken line bubble identified as 15D. Figure 15E is an exploded side view of the center fed antenna boom having a boom inner segment that telescopingly engages in a boom outer segment in a boom stowed condition

[0041] Figure 15F is a perspective view of the center fed antenna boom having the inner boom segment telescopingly engaged with the outer boom segment depicted in invisible lines.

[0042] Figure 15G is a side elevation view of the center fed antenna boom having the inner boom segment telescopingly engaged with the outer boom segment depicted in invisible lines.

[0043] Figure 15H is an enlarged view of the portion of Figure 15E depicted in the broken line bubble identified as 15G.

[0044] Figure 16A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a center fed antenna boom having a boom inner segment telescopingly engaged in a boom outer segment in a boom deployed condition.

[0045] Figure 16B is a side elevation view of the center fed antenna boom having a boom inner segment telescopingly engaged in a boom outer segment in a boom deployed condition.

[0046] Figure 16C is a perspective of an embodiment of a center fed antenna boom having a boom inner segment telescopingly engaged in a boom outer segment in a boom deployed condition with the boom outer segment depicted in invisible lines.

[0047] Figure 16D is an enlarged view of the portion of Figure 16C depicted in the broken line bubble identified as 16D.

[0048] Figure 16E is an enlarged view of the portion of Figure 16A depicted in the broken line bubble identified as 16E.

[0049] Figure 16F is a schematic diagram of the boom deployer of the center fed antenna boom having a boom inner segment telescopingly engaged in a boom outer segment in a boom stowed condition. Figure 16G is a schematic diagram of the boom deployer of the center fed antenna boom having a boom inner segment telescopingly engaged in a boom outer segment in a boom deployed condition.

[0050] Figure 17A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a boom deployer.

[0051] Figure 17B is a first side elevation view of the boom deployer.

[0052] Figure 17C is a second side elevation view of the boom deployer.

[0053] Figure 17D is a first end elevation view of the boom deployer.

[0054] Figure 17E is a second end elevation view of the boom deployer.

[0055] Figure 17F is a top plan view of the boom deployer.

[0056] Figure 17G is bottom plan view of the boom deployer.

[0057] Figure 17H is a perspective view of the boom deployer having a portion of the boom deployer outer housing removed.

[0058] Figure 171 is a perspective view of the boom deployer having the housing in invisible line.

[0059] Figure 17J is a perspective view of the boom deployer having the housing removed.

[0060] Figure 18A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a sub -reflector.

[0061] Figure 18B is a side elevation view of the sub -reflector.

[0062] Figure 18C is a cross section view 18C-18C depicted in Figure 18 B.

[0063] Figure 19A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the stowed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system with broken line bubble 19B including a boom hinge. Figurel9B is an enlarged portion of Figure 19A depicted in the broken line bubble identified as 19B.

[0064] Figure 19C is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of the boom hinge in the stowed condition of the center fed antenna.

[0065] Figure 19D is a top plan view of the boom hinge in the stowed condition of the center fed antenna.

[0066] Figure 19E is a side elevation view of the boom hinge in the stowed condition of the center fed antenna.

[0067] Figure 19F is an end elevation view of the boom hinge in the stowed condition of the center fed antenna.

[0068] Figure 19G is cross section view 19G-19G shown in Figure 19F of the boom hinge in the stowed condition of the center fed antenna.

[0069] Figure 20A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the center fed antenna in the deployed condition coupled to a substrate in the form of an aerospace system with broken line bubble 20B including the boom hinge.

[0070] Figure 20B is an enlarged portion of Figure 20A depicted in the broken line bubble identified as 20B.

[0071] Figure 20C is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of the boom hinge in the deployed condition of the center fed antenna.

[0072] Figure 20D is a top plan view of the boom hinge in the deployed condition of the center fed antenna.

[0073] Figure 20E is a side elevation view of the boom hinge in the deployed condition of the center fed antenna. Figures 20F is an end elevation view of the boom hinge in the deployed condition of the center fed antenna.

[0074] Figure 20G is cross section view 20G-20G shown in Figure 20F of the boom hinge in the stowed condition of the center fed antenna.

[0075] Figure 21 is a graph which plots center fed antenna aperture diameter against deployment frequency in Hertz.

[0076] Figure 22 is a graph which plots center fed antenna aperture diameter against gain at 10 Gigahertz.

[0077] Figure 23 is a graph which plots center fed antenna radio frequency directivity as a function magnitude (db) in relation direction in degrees from zero degrees.

[0078] VI. MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0079] Generally, with reference to Figures 1 through 23, which depict illustrative embodiments of a center fed antenna (1) and methods of making embodiments of the center fed antenna (1) and methods of using embodiments of the center fed antenna (1). The term “center fed” for the purposes of this invention means the focal point (2) of reflected electromagnetic waves (3) occurs above the reflector (4) and can be substantially aligned with the reflector center (5) with the reflector (4) being substantially symmetric about the focal axis (6). The center fed antenna (1) can, but need not necessarily, be coupled to or associated with an aerospace system (7) such as a spacecraft or satellite; however, this is not intended to preclude embodiments of the center fed antenna (1) coupled or associated with terrestrial systems (8) such as land surface structures or marine surface structures. In particular embodiments, the center fed antenna (1) can be associated with an aerospace system (7) in a stowed condition as illustrated in Figures 1 through 5 and subsequently deploy as illustrated in Figures 6 through 10.

[0080] With primary reference to Figures 1 through 11, in particular embodiments the center fed antenna (1) can include one or more of: a reflector (4) extending from a reflector center aperture (9) to reflector perimeter edge (10); a first net (11) extending from a first net center aperture (12) to a first net perimeter edge (13), the first net (11) having a first net inner surface (14) opposite a first net outer surface (15), the first net outer surface (15) supporting the reflector (4); a second net (16) extending from a second net center aperture (17) to a second net perimeter edge (18), the second net (16) having a second net inner surface (19) opposite a second net outer surface (20), the second net inner surface (19) facing the first net inner surface (14); a boom (21) disposed within the first net center aperture (12), the second net center aperture (15) and the reflector center aperture (9) with the boom longitudinal axis (22) substantially aligned with the reflector center (5) with the reflector (4) being substantially symmetric about the boom longitudinal axis and defining the focal axis (6); a truss (23) disposed circumferentially about the boom (21), the truss (23) coupled to the first net (11) at a plurality of points (24) along the first net perimeter edge (13), the truss (23) coupled to the second net (16) at plurality of points (25) along the second net perimeter edge (18); and a truss deployer (26) operable to deploy the truss (23) between a truss stowed condition (27) (as shown in the examples of Figures 1-5) and a truss deployed condition (28) (as shown in the examples of Figures 6-10), the truss (23) in the truss deployed condition (28) tensions the first net (11) and the second net (16) to maintain the first net outer surface (15) in a configuration to support the reflector (4) in a configuration useful to capture or reflect radio electromagnetic waves (3). While Figures 6 through 10, depict embodiments of the first net outer surface (15) and the supported reflector (4) having a parabolic or curved surface with a cross- sectional shape of a parabola (as shown in the example of Figure 11); this not intended to preclude embodiments of a first net outer surface (15) and the supported reflector (4) having a flat surface.

[0081] Again, with primary reference to Figures 6 through 11, embodiments of the center fed antenna (1) include a reflector (4) extending radially outward from a reflector center aperture (9) to the reflector perimeter edge (10). For clarity, in the examples of Figures 6 through 11, the reflector (4) is depicted with stipple, while the first net (11) and the second net (16) are without stipple. The reflector perimeter edge (10) of the deployed center fed antenna (1) can define the diameter of the reflector aperture (29). The reflector aperture (29) can be scaled, and in particular embodiments can be about 3 meters to about 25 meters (or therebetween in increments of 50 millimeters); however, this is not intended to preclude embodiments which define a lesser or greater reflector aperture (29). The reflector (4) can comprise a material capable of or adapted to capture and / or reflect electromagnetic waves (3). The reflector (4) can, as illustrative examples, comprise one or more of a reflective membrane, a reflective mesh, a reflective phased array, a reflectarray, or the like. As to particular embodiments, the reflector (4) can be a discrete structure and the first net (11) can be a discrete structure with the reflector (4) disposed on the first net outer surface (15), or the reflector (4) can be integrated with the first net (11). Again, with primary reference to Figures 6 through 11, embodiments of the center fed antenna (1) include a first net (11) extending from a first net center aperture (12) open between the first net inner surface (14) to the first net outer surface (15) and radially extending to a first net perimeter edge (13) and a second net (16) extending from a second net center aperture (17) open between the second net inner surface (19) to the second net outer surface (20) and radially extending to a second net perimeter edge (18). The first net inner surface (14) facing the second net inner surface (19) with the first net center aperture (12) and the second net center aperture (17) generally aligned (as shown in the example of Figure 8). The first net (11) and the second net (16) can comprise a net defining non-overlapping edge-joined polygons extending to the corresponding polygon vertices (31) (as shown in the illustrative examples of Figures 12B and 12C). The first net (11) and the second net (16) can be attached to each other by a plurality of tension ties (30) extending between corresponding polygon vertices (31) (as shown in the example of Figure 11). The plurality of tension ties (30) can aid in achieving, maintaining, and adjusting the first net outer surface (15) and the second net outer surface (20) in a flat configuration or in a curved configuration. In particular embodiments the curved configuration can comprise a parabola. The second net (16) can be symmetric or asymmetric relative to the first net (11). The first net outer surface (15) can support the reflector (4) with the reflector central aperture (9) generally aligned with the first net center aperture (12) and the second net center aperture (17).

[0082] Again, with primary reference to Figures 6 through 10, a truss (23) can be disposed circumferentially around the boom (21). The truss (23) can be coupled to the first net (11) at a plurality of points (24) along the first net perimeter edge (13). The truss (23) can be coupled to the second net (16) at plurality of points (25) along said second net perimeter edge (18). As an illustrative embodiment, the truss (23) can include a plurality of battens (32). The plurality of battens (32) can be disposed in circumferential spaced apart relation around the boom (21). Each of the plurality of battens (32) extends between one of plurality of points (24) along the first net perimeter edge (13) and one of the plurality of points (25) along the second net perimeter edge (18). Each of the plurality of battens (32) can have a batten length (33) disposed between a batten first end (34) coupled or connected to one of the plurality of points (24) along the first net perimeter edge (13) and a batten second end (35) coupled or connected to one of the plurality of points (25) along the second net perimeter edge (18). Again, with primary reference to Figures 6 through 11, embodiments of the truss (23) can further include a first plurality of longerons (36) coupling or connecting each of the plurality of battens (32) to an adjacent one of the plurality of battens (32) at, or proximate to, the batten first ends (34). The truss (23) can include a second plurality of longerons (37) coupling or connecting each of the plurality of battens (32) to an adjacent one of the plurality of battens (32) at, or proximate to, the batten second ends (35). Each of the first plurality of longerons (36) and the second plurality of longerons (37) can have a longeron length (38) disposed between a longeron first end (39) opposite a longeron second end (40) correspondingly rotatably coupled between a pair of batten first ends (34) or a pair of batten second ends (35).

[0083] Again, with primary reference to Figures 6 through 11, the truss (23) can further include a plurality of diagonal members (42) having a diagonal member length (43) between a diagonal member first end (44) and a diagonal member second end (45). The truss can include a plurality of diagonal members (43) coupling or connecting each alternate batten first end (34) to each adjacent alternate batten second end (35) of the plurality of battens (32). The truss (23) can include a plurality of diagonal members (42) coupling or connecting each adjacent alternate batten second end (35) to each adjacent alternate batten first end (34). The diagonal member first ends (44) and diagonal member second ends (45) can be rotationally coupled to the respective batten first ends (34) or the respective batten second ends (35).

[0084] Now, with primary reference to Figure 12A which identifies enlarged portions of the truss (23) depicted in Figures 12A and 12B in broken line bubbles. Figure 12B depicts pairs of the first plurality of longerons (36) rotatably coupled to a batten first end (34) by a pair of synchronizer gears (41A) meshed to afford a substantially equal or an equal degree of rotation of the first plurality of longerons (36) in relation to the corresponding batten first end (34). In particular embodiments, pairs of the second plurality of longerons (37) rotatably coupled to a batten second end (35) can include a pair of synchronizer gears (41A) meshed to afford a substantially equal or equal degree of rotation of the second plurality of longerons in relation the corresponding batten second end (35). In particular embodiments, a pair of synchronizer gears (41 A) can be associated with a pair of the first plurality of longerons (36) rotatably coupled to every second one of the plurality of batten first ends (34) (also referred to a “valley node” in the truss stowed condition (27)) with every other pair of the first plurality of longerons without a pair of synchronizer gears (41 A) as shown in the example of Figure 12C (also referred to as ’’ridge node” in the truss stowed condition (27)). Similarly, a pair of synchronizer gears (41 A) can be associated with a pair of the second plurality of longerons (37) rotatably coupled to every second one of the plurality of batten second ends (35). In particular embodiments, the pair of synchronizer gears (41 A) at one end of a batten (32) can obviate a pair of synchronizer gears (41) at the other end of the batten (32). Now with primary reference to Figure 12C, in particular embodiments, the “ridge node” can include a ridge node pulley (41B)(as shown in the illustrative example of Figure 13C).

[0085] In achieving the truss stowed condition (27) (as shown in the example of Figures 1 through 5), the first plurality of longerons (36), the second plurality of longerons (37), the plurality diagonal members (42) rotate inward in relation to each other to collapse the truss (23) to achieve the truss stowed condition (27). In achieving the truss deployed condition (28), the first plurality of longerons (36), the second plurality of longerons (37), and the plurality of diagonal members (42) rotate outward in relation to each other. As shown in the illustrative example of Figure 12C, the angle 9 between a first diagonal member (42a) adjacent a second diagonal member (42b) has a lesser angle (9) in the collapsed or stowed condition (27) of the truss (23) and has a greater angle (9) in the expanded or deployed condition (28) of the truss (23).

[0086] Now, with primary reference to Figure 13A which identifies the portion of the truss (23) and truss deployer (26) enlarged in Figures 13B and 13C in the broken line bubble 13B. Now, with primary reference to Figures 13B and 13C, the truss deployer (26) can be configured to rotate the first plurality of longerons (36), the second plurality of longerons (37), and the plurality of diagonal members (42) outward in relation to each other thereby increasing the angle (9) between a first diagonal member (42a) and an adjacent a second diagonal member (42b) to increase the truss radius (46) circumferentially disposed around the boom (21). The truss deployer (26) can take a variety of mechanical forms, as illustrative examples: spring biased longeron or diagonal member joints, motorized gear fitted longeron joints or diagonal member joints, and retractable and extendable length longerons. In the illustrative example depicted in Figures 13B and 13C, the truss deployer (26) can include a cable (47) routed along or through the plurality of diagonal members (42) and directed at batten first or second ends (34, 25) by ridge node pulleys (4 IB). Opposite cable ends (48, 49) can be coupled to a cable reel (59) of the truss deployer (26). The cable reel (59) can be rotated to wind the cable (47) about the cable reel (59). As the cable reel (59) rotates, the cable (47) winds around the cable reel (59) and decreases the cable length (51) routed along or through the plurality of diagonal members (42). As the cable length (51) decreases, the plurality of diagonal members (42) are drawn away from the corresponding plurality of battens (32) as the angle (9) between adjacent diagonal members (42) increases to correspondingly increase the truss radius (46) as the truss (23) circumferentially expands about the boom (21) toward the truss deployed condition (28).

[0087] Now, with primary reference to Figures 14A through 14F, embodiments can include a truss deployment controller (52) operable to apply a low pound-force (“Ibf ’) which opposes deployment of the truss (23) to increase deployment stability of the truss (23). The term low pound-force for the purposes of the embodiments of the invention means a pound-force of between about 0.5 Ibf to about 2.0 Ibf. As shown in Figures in the illustrative example of Figures 14E and 14F, the truss deployment controller (52) can include a spool (53) having a spool axis (54). At least one cord (55) extends from the spool (53) to a point on the truss (23), and in particular embodiments, corresponding to at least one batten (32). In a truss stowed condition (27), the truss deployment controller (52) applies a low pound-force load between the boom (21) and at least one batten (32). In the illustrative embodiment of Figures 14F, a clock spring (56) can be coupled to the spool (53) to preload the spool (53). The clock spring (56) can be wound to as many wraps as required for deployment of the truss (23). In particular embodiments, as shown in Figures 14A and 14B, a drive motor (56a) can operate to rotate the spool (53). The spool (53) rotates to pay out the at least one cord (55) to control deployment of the truss (23). In particular embodiments, the one or a plurality of truss deployment controllers (52) can be disposed with the spool axis (54) aligned with the boom longitudinal axes (22) with the corresponding cords (55) extending to the truss (23). In particular embodiments as shown in Figures 14A and 14B a plurality of truss deployment controllers (52) can be affixed in circumferential spaced apart relation around the boom (21) on a first spoke interface (57, 59), and in the embodiment depicted, three truss deployment controllers can be disposed around the boom (21) to control the deployment of the truss (23) and resist twisting or rotating normal to the boom longitudinal axis (22). The corresponding three cords (55) can extend in radially substantially equal spaced apart degree relationship (as an illustrative example at 120 degrees, 240 degrees and 360 degrees) from one or a plurality of truss deployment controllers (52) to the truss (23), and in particular embodiments, to at least three battens (32). Similar, additional truss deployment controllers (52) can be disposed on the second spoke interface (57, 61) shown in Figure 14D to further resist truss (23) rotation in each of three axes about the boom longitudinal axis (22). In particular embodiments, a cord (55) extending from each spool (53) can comprise a spoke (58) extending between the boom (21) and the truss (23). The spool(s) (53) rotate to pay out the spoke (s) (58) to control deployment of the truss (23). Now, with primary reference to Figures 6 through 11 and 12A through 12D and 14A and 14B, embodiments can include one or more spoke interfaces (57) from which a plurality of spokes (58) extend between the boom (21) and the truss (23). In particular embodiments, the spoke interface (57) includes a first spoke interface (59) having a first spoke interface central aperture (60) and a second spoke interface (61) having a second spoke interface central aperture (62). The boom (21) can be disposed in each of the first spoke interface central aperture (60) and the second spoke interface center aperture (62) with the first spoke interface (59) disposed a distance from the second spoke interface (61) on said boom (21) (as shown in the illustrative examples of Figures 6 through 10 and Figures 15A and 15B). In particular embodiments, the first spoke interface (59) and the second spoke interface (61) can each comprise an annular member (59a, 61a) disposed between an inner annular edge (59b, 61b) affixed to the boom (21) and extending outward to an outer annular edge (59c, 61c). In the embodiments depicted, the first and second spoke interfaces (59, 61) each comprise a flat circular annular plate (59d, 61d) (as shown in the example of Figures 15 A and 15B). A first plurality of spokes (63) can extend from the first spoke interface (59) to the corresponding plurality of batten first ends (34) (as shown in the example of Figure 7). A second plurality of spokes (64) can extend from the second interface plate (61) to the corresponding plurality of batten second ends (35) (as shown in the example of Figure 9). In particular embodiments, the first plurality of spokes (63) can each have a plurality of spoke first ends (65) coupled to each batten first end (34) (as shown examples of Figures 12B and 12C) and have the corresponding plurality of spoke second ends (66) coupled in radially spaced apart relation to first spoke interface (59) (as shown in Figure 14B). The second plurality of spokes (64) can each have spoke first ends (67) coupled to one batten second end (35) (as shown the example of Figure 12B) and have the corresponding plurality of spoke second ends (68) coupled in spaced apart relation to second spoke interface (61) (as shown in the example of 14A).

[0088] As shown in Figures 12B and 12C, in particular embodiments, the plurality of spokes (58, 63, 64) can comprise a tape. As examples, the tape can comprise a carbon fiber, a glass fiber, and quartz fiber, and combinations thereof. The stiffness of the tape can be modified by adjusting the weave and cross-sectional area of the tape. A tape having a width of about 5 millimeters to about 7 millimeters with an intermediate modulus fiber of about 42 MSi to about 47 MSi can be suitable for use with embodiments of the plurality of spokes (58, 63, 64). In particular embodiments, a spoke sheath (69) can provide a protective cover for each of the plurality of spokes (58, 63, 64) (as shown in the example of Figure 12D). In certain instances, the spoke sheath (69) can comprise a braided polyether ether ketone. In particular embodiments, a first truss spoke interface (70) can rotatably couple each of the first plurality of spoke first ends (65) proximate one of a truss batten first ends (34) and a first boom spoke interface (71) can rotatably couple each of the first plurality of spoke second ends (66) to the first spoke interface (59). Similarly, a second truss spoke interface (72) can rotatably couple each of the second plurality of spoke first ends (67) proximate one of a truss batten second end (35) and second boom spoke interface (73) can rotatably couple each of the second plurality of spoke second ends (68) to the second spoke interface (61). The truss spoke interfaces (70, 72) and the boom spoke interfaces (71, 73) rotate to allow the spoke ends to adjust for the truss stowed condition (27) and the truss deployed condition (28) and operational movement of the boom (21) relative to the truss (23).

[0089] Now, with primary reference to Figures 15A through 15G and 16A through 16E, in particular embodiments, the boom (21) can comprise a boom outer segment (74) having a boom outer segment first end (75) opposite a boom outer segment second end (76). The first spoke interface (59) can be disposed proximate the boom outer segment first end (75) and the second spoke interface (61) can be disposed proximate the boom outer segment second end (76). A boom inner segment (77) having a boom inner segment first end (78) opposite a boom inner segment second end (79) can be telescopingly engaged inside the boom outer segment (74). In particular embodiments, the boom outer segment (74) and the boom inner segment (77) can be formed as a composite of carbon fibers and / or glass scrim and a polymer resin. The boom inner segment (77) can comprise a plurality of boom inner segments (77a, 77b. . ,77n) telescopingly engaged inside the boom outer segment (74). The boom outer segment (74) and boom inner segments (77) can be scaled in length and number of segments to accommodate a range of reflector aperture diameters and focal length to aperture diameter. In particular embodiments, the boom outer segment internal surface (80) and the boom inner segment external surface (81) can include mated anti -rotation parts (82) which control rotation of the boom inner segment (77) within the boom outer segment

[0090] (74). In the illustrative example, a plurality of rails (83) can be affixed in radially spaced apart relation to the boom outer segment internal surface (80) between the boom outer segment first end

[0091] (75) and the boom outer segment second end (76) and plurality of rail guides (84) can be affixed to the boom inner segment external surface (81). The plurality of rail guides (84) can correspondingly include a plurality of rail slots (85) that slidingly engage the plurality of rails (83) to resist rotation of the boom inner segment (77) inside of the boom outer segment (74).

[0092] Now, with primary reference to Figures 15A through 15G, 16A through 16G, and 17A through to 17F, embodiments can include a boom deployer (86) operable to telescoping extend the boom inner segment (77) a distance outside of the boom outer segment (74). In particular embodiments, the boom deployer (86) can include a boom deployment reel (87) having reel rotation axis (88) coincident with the boom longitudinal axis (22). A wire rope (89) can be routed from the boom deployment reel (87) to a first pully (90) coupled proximate the boom outer segment first end (75) (as shown in the illustrative examples of Figures 15C, 15D, 16E through 16F), to a second pully (91) coupled proximate the boom outer segment second end (76) (as shown in the illustrative examples of Figures 16D, 16F and 16G), and to a third pully (92) (shown in Figures 15C, 15G, 16C, 16D, 16F and 16G) can be coupled proximate the boom inner segment first end (78) with the wire rope terminal (93) affixed proximate the boom inner segment second end (79). The boom deployment reel (87) can be rotated to wind the wire rope (89) on the boom deployment reel (87) to shorten the wire rope (89) between the boom deployer reel (87) and the wire rope terminal (93) causing the boom inner segment (77) to extend outward of the boom outer segment (74). The boom deployment reel (87) can include ring gear (94) that meshes with a plurality of planet gears (95) and with a pinion gear (96) driven by a motor (97) operable to generate rotation of the boom deployment reel (87) to wind the wire rope (89) around the boom deployment reel (87). A plurality of pinch rollers (98) can manage uptake of the wire rope (89) windings on the boom deployment reel (87).

[0093] Now, with primary reference to Figures 6 through 10, 16A and 16B, and 18A through 18C, embodiments can include a feed horn (99) mounted to the boom (21), and in certain embodiments, the boom inner segment second end (76). In the embodiment depicted, the feed horn (99) comprises a rectangular feed horn; however, the shape of the feedhorn (99) can be tailored to adequately illuminate the reflector (4) and as examples can, depending on the application be: a pyramidal horn, sectoral horn, e-plane horn, h-plane horn, conical horn, exponential horn, corrugated horn, diagonal horn, septum horn, or aperture limited horn. In particular embodiments, a sub-reflector (100) can be disposed above the feed horn (99) by a plurality of struts (101) extending from the sub-reflector perimeter (102) to the boom (21) or boom inner segment second end (76). The feed horn (99), and sub-reflector (100) supported above the feed horn (99) by the plurality of struts (101) can comprise a fixed assembly disposed on the boom (21) or on boom inner segment second end (76) and can be stowed within or proximate the boom outer segment second end (76) until deployed by extension of the boom inner segment (77) to dispose the feed horn (100) and sub-reflector (100) at a position to illuminate the reflector (4). As illustrated in Figures 18A through 18C, in particular embodiments, the sub-reflector (100) can comprise light weight disc (100a). The light-weight disc (100a) can have a diameter of approximating the diameter of boom inner segment (77) axially displaced above the feed horn (99) and defining a reflective ellipse having first foci located at the reflector symmetry axis (103) and a second foci of the ellipse that coincides with focus of the reflector (4). Rotation around the symmetry axis (103) defines a ring caustic between the sub-reflector (100) and the reflector (4). The sub-reflector (100) and reflector (4) provide the collimation of a spherical wavefront emanating from the system focus into a cylindrical wavefront at the reflector aperture (29).

[0094] Now, with primary reference to Figures 1 through 5 and 19A through 19G and Figures 7 through 10 and 20 A through 20F, the center fed antenna (1) can be mounted to and aerospace system (7) (a satellite bus as shown in the examples of Figures 1 through 5 and 19A), a terrestrial system (8), or other support structure (collectively “support structure”). In particular embodiments, a boom hinge (104) can be coupled between the boom (21) and to the support structure (7, 8). The boom hinge (104) can operate between a hinge first condition (105) (as shown in the examples of Figures 19A through 19G) disposing the center fed antenna (1) in an antenna stowed condition (106) (as shown the examples of Figures 1 through 5) and a hinge second condition (107) disposing the center fed antenna (1) in the antenna deployed condition (108). In a particular embodiment of a boom hinge (104), a first cup (109) can be rotatably coupled to a second cup (110). The first cup (109) can be configured to couple to the support structure (7, 8) and the second cup (110) can be configured couple to the boom (21). In particular embodiments, the boom hinge (104) can include an over center linkage (111) which includes a biasing pin (112) centrally telescopingly engaged to the second cup (110), a drag link (113) having a drag link first end (114) opposite a drag link second end (115) having the drag link first end (114) rotatably connected to the biasing pin (112), a drive link (116) having a drive link first end (117) opposite a drive link second end (118) having the drive link first end ( 114) rotatably connected to the drag link second end (118), and the drive link second end (118) centrally rotatably coupled to said first cup (109). The drive link (113) can be rotated to move the boom hinge (104) toward the hinge second condition (107). In particular embodiments, a drive motor (119) can operate to rotate the drive link (113) to move the boom hinge (104) between the hinge first condition (105) and the hinge second condition (107). In particular embodiments, the boom hinge (104) can be coupled to a boom pointer (120) operable to positionally orient the boom (21) and correspondingly the center fed antenna (1). As an illustrative example, the boom pointer (120) can comprise a one axis or two axis gimbal (121). Now, with primary reference to Figure 21, as the truss (21) moves toward the truss deployed condition (28) the truss (23), the truss (23) correspondingly increases tension in the first net (11) and the second net (16) to dispose the reflector (4) supported by the first net outer surface (15) in an operational configuration to reflect electromagnetic waves (3) within a desired frequency band. As shown in Figure 21, the truss (23) can be scaled to afford truss deployed configurations to achieve reflector aperture (29) diameters (incrementally of up to 25 meters with a corresponding deployed frequency in the range of about 16 Hz to about 2 Hz. As illustrative examples, an aperture diameter of 3 meters operate at about 14 Hz, an aperture diameter of 5 meters operated at about 9 Hz, an aperture diameter of about 7 meters can operate at about 8 Hz, an aperture diameter of about 10 meters can operate at about 5 Hz, an aperture diameter of about 15 meters can operate at about 3 Hz, an aperture diameter of 20 meters can operate at about 2 Hz.

[0095] As shown in Figure 22, embodiments of the center fed antenna () having reflector aperture (29) diameters of up to 25 meters were assessed for frequency performance (Gain@10 GHz (db)). As illustrative examples an aperture diameter of 3 meters operated at a gain of about 48 db, an aperture diameter of 5 meters operated at gain of about 52 db, an aperture diameter of about 7 meters can operate at gain of about 56 db, an aperture diameter of about 10 meters can operate at a gain of about 59 db, an aperture diameter of about 15 meters can operate at gain of about 61 db, an aperture diameter of 20 meters can operate at gain of about 64 db.

[0096] As shown in Figure 23, the radio frequency performance at 10GHz for a reference faceted surface shows exceptional peak directivity with minimal loss due to systematic surface errors. The first side lobes and grating side lobes show separation from the main beam. Cross-pol results are also well suppressed with appropriate nulls. Directivity and side lobe performance can be optimized with a front side net with smaller facet sizes.

[0097] As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic concepts of the present invention may be embodied in a variety of ways. The invention involves numerous and varied embodiments of an antenna and methods for making and using such antenna including the best mode.

[0098] As such, the particular embodiments or elements of the invention disclosed by the description or shown in the figures or tables accompanying this application are not intended to be limiting, but rather illustrative of the numerous and varied embodiments generically encompassed by the invention or equivalents encompassed with respect to any particular element thereof. In addition, the specific description of a single embodiment or element of the invention may not explicitly describe all embodiments or elements possible; many alternatives are implicitly disclosed by the description and figures.

[0099] It should be understood that each element of an apparatus or each step of a method may be described by an apparatus term or method term. Such terms can be substituted where desired to make explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this invention is entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that all steps of a method may be disclosed as an action, a means for taking that action, or as an element which causes that action. Similarly, each element of an apparatus may be disclosed as the physical element or the action which that physical element facilitates. As but one example, the disclosure of a “deployer” should be understood to encompass disclosure of the act of “deploying” — whether explicitly discussed or not — and, conversely, were there effectively disclosure of the act of “deploying”, such a disclosure should be understood to encompass disclosure of a “deployer” and even a “means for deploying.” Such alternative terms for each element or step are to be understood to be explicitly included in the description.

[0100] In addition, as to each term used it should be understood that unless its utilization in this application is inconsistent with such interpretation, common dictionary definitions should be understood to be included in the description for each term as contained in Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, each definition hereby incorporated by reference.

[0101] All numeric values herein are assumed to be modified by the term “about”, whether or not explicitly indicated. For the purposes of the present invention, ranges may be expressed as from "about" one particular value to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value to the other particular value. The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all the numeric values subsumed within that range. A numerical range of one to five includes for example the numeric values 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, and so forth. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. When a value is expressed as an approximation by use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term “about” generally refers to a range of numeric values that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited numeric value or having the same function or result. Similarly, the antecedent “substantially” means largely, but not wholly, the same form, manner or degree and the particular element will have a range of configurations as a person of ordinary skill in the art would consider as having the same function or result. When a particular element is expressed as an approximation by use of the antecedent "substantially," it will be understood that the particular element forms another embodiment.

[0102] Moreover, for the purposes of the present invention, the term “a” or “an” entity refers to one or more of that entity unless otherwise limited. As such, the terms “a” or “an”, “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein.

[0103] Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to claim at least: i) each of the antenna herein disclosed and described, ii) the related methods disclosed and described, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicit variations of each of these devices and methods, iv) those alternative embodiments which accomplish each of the functions shown, disclosed, or described, v) those alternative designs and methods which accomplish each of the functions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which is disclosed and described, vi) each feature, component, and step shown as separate and independent inventions, vii) the applications enhanced by the various systems or components disclosed, viii) the resulting products produced by such systems or components, ix) methods and apparatuses substantially as described hereinbefore and with reference to any of the accompanying examples, x) the various combinations and permutations of each of the previous elements disclosed.

[0104] The background section of this patent application provides a statement of the field of endeavor to which the invention pertains. This section may also incorporate or contain paraphrasing of certain United States patents, patent applications, publications, or subject matter of the claimed invention useful in relating information, problems, or concerns about the state of technology to which the invention is drawn toward. It is not intended that any United States patent, patent application, publication, statement or other information cited or incorporated herein be interpreted, construed or deemed to be admitted as prior art with respect to the invention.

[0105] The claims set forth in this specification, if any, are hereby incorporated by reference as part of this description of the invention, and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use all of or a portion of such incorporated content of such claims as additional description to support any of or all of the claims or any element or component thereof, and the applicant further expressly reserves the right to move any portion of or all of the incorporated content of such claims or any element or component thereof from the description into the claims or vice-versa as necessary to define the matter for which protection is sought by this application or by any subsequent application or continuation, division, or continuation-in-part application thereof, or to obtain any benefit of, reduction in fees pursuant to, or to comply with the patent laws, rules, or regulations of any country or treaty, and such content incorporated by reference shall survive during the entire pendency of this application including any subsequent continuation, division, or continuation-in-part application thereof or any reissue or extension thereon.

[0106] Additionally, the claims set forth in this specification, if any, are further intended to describe the metes and bounds of a limited number of the preferred embodiments of the invention and are not to be construed as the broadest embodiment of the invention or a complete listing of embodiments of the invention that may be claimed. The applicant does not waive any right to develop further claims based upon the description set forth above as a part of any continuation, division, or continuation-in-part, or similar application. 1

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 09 March 2026 ( 09.03.2026)We claim:

1. An apparatus, comprising: a reflector having a reflector center aperture; a first net extending from a first net center aperture to a first net perimeter edge, said first net having a first net inner surface opposite a first net outer surface, said first net outer surface supporting said reflector; a second net extending from a second net center aperture to a second net perimeter edge, said second net having a second net inner surface opposite a second net outer surface, said second net inner surface facing said first net inner surface; a boom passing through said first net center aperture, said second net center aperture and said reflector center aperture; a truss circumferentially disposed about said boom, said truss coupled to said first net at a plurality of points along said first net perimeter edge, said truss coupled to said second net at plurality of points along said second net perimeter edge; and a truss deployer operable to deploy said truss between a truss stowed condition and a truss deployed condition, said truss in said truss deployed condition tensioning said first net and said second net.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said truss includes a plurality of battens each having a batten length disposed between a batten first end and a batten second end, said plurality of points of said first net perimeter edge each correspondingly coupled to one of a plurality of batten first ends, said plurality of points of said second net perimeter edge each correspondingly coupled to one of a plurality of batten second ends.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein said truss further includes:a first plurality of longerons connecting adjacent pairs of said plurality of batten first ends; and a second plurality of longerons connecting adjacent pairs of said plurality of batten second ends.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein said truss further includes a plurality of diagonal members, wherein one of said plurality of diagonal members connects one of said plurality of batten first ends to an adjacent one of said plurality of batten second ends; and wherein another one of said plurality of diagonal members connects said adjacent one of said plurality of batten second ends to another adjacent one of said plurality of batten first ends.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein said truss deployer includes: a cable routed through said plurality of diagonals; and a cable reel rotatable to wind said cable about said cable reel.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a truss deployment controller, including: a spool; and at least one cord wound about said spool, said at least one cord extending to at least one of said plurality of battens, said spool rotates to pay out said at least one cord to control deployment of said truss from said truss stowed condition to said truss deployed condition.

7. An apparatus, comprising: a reflector having a reflector center aperture; a first net extending from a first net center aperture to a first net perimeter edge, said first net having a first net inner surface opposite a first net outer surface, said first net outer surface supporting said reflector; a second net extending from a second net center aperture to a second net perimeter edge, said second net having a second net inner surface opposite a second net outer surface, said second net inner surface facing said first net inner surface;a boom passing through said first net center aperture, said second net center aperture and said reflector center aperture; a truss circumferentially disposed about said boom, said truss coupled to said first net at a plurality of points along said first net perimeter edge, said truss coupled to said second net at plurality of points along said second net perimeter edge; and a truss deployer operable to deploy said truss between a truss stowed condition and a truss deployed condition, said truss in said truss deployed condition tensioning said first net and said second net; a spoke interface, including: a first interface plate having a first interface plate central aperture; a second interface plate having a second interface plate central aperture, said boom passing through each of said first and second inface plate center apertures, said first interface plate disposed a distance from said second interface plate on said boom; a first plurality of spokes correspondingly extending from said first interface plate to said plurality of batten first ends; and a second plurality of spokes correspondingly extending from said second interface plate to said plurality of second batten ends.

8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein said at least one cord extending to at least one of said plurality of battens comprises a spoke.

9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein said boom comprises: a boom outer segment having a boom outer segment first end opposite a boom outer segment second end; and a boom inner segment having a boom inner segment first end opposite a boom inner segment second end, said boom inner segment telescopingly engaged inside said boom outer segment.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a boom deployer coupled to said boom inner segment, said boom deployer operable to extend said boom inner segment second end a distance outside of said boom outer segment.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said boom deployer comprises: a sheave having a sheave axis disposed in parallel with a longitudinal axis of said boom; a first pulley affixed to said boom outer segment first end; a second pully affixed to said boom outer segment second end; a third pully affixed to said boom inner segment first end; and a wire extending from said spool and engaging said first pulley, said second pully, and said third pully with a wire terminal end affixed proximate said boom inner segment second end.

12. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein said boom inner segment comprises a plurality of boom inner segments telescopingly engaged inside said boom outer segment.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, further comprising a boom deployer coupled to said plurality of boom inner segments, said boom deployer operable to extend said plurality of boom inner segments a distance outside of said boom outer segment.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein said boom deployer comprises: a sheave having a sheave axis disposed in parallel with a longitudinal axis of said boom; a first pulley affixed to said boom outer segment first end; a second pully affixed to said boom outer segment second end; a third pully affixed to a first boom inner segment first end; a fourth pully affixed to a first boom inner segment second end; a fifth pully affixed to a second boom inner segment first end; and a wire extending from said spool and engaging said first pulley, said second pully, said third pully, said fourth pulley and said fifth pulley with a wire terminal end affixed proximate said second boom inner segment second end.

15. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a feed coupled to said boom inner segment second end.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein said feed coupled to said boom inner segment, said feed configured to emit a signal which directly illuminates said reflector.

17. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a sub-reflector coupled to said boom inner segment second end.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising a feed coupled to said boom inner segment second end and below said sub -reflector, said sub-reflector reflects a signal from said feed to illuminate said reflector.

19. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a boom hinge coupled between said boom and a support structure, said boom hinge operable between a hinge first condition disposing said boom in a boom stowed condition and a hinge second condition disposing said boom in a boom deployed condition.

20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein said boom hinge comprises: a first cup rotatably coupled to a second cup; said first cup configured to couple to said support structure and said second cup configured couple to said boom; a biasing pin telescopingly engaged to said second cup, said pin spring biased against telescoping movement in relation to said second cup; an over-center linkage including: a drive link having a drive link first end opposite a drive ling second end; a drag link having a drag link first end and a drag link second end, said drive link first end pivotally to said biasing pin; said drive link second end pivotally joined to said drag link second end.

21. The apparatus of claim 19, further comprising a boom pointer coupled to said boom hinge, said boom pointer operable to positionally orient said boom.

22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein said boom pointer comprises a one axis or two axis gimbal.

23. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a boom pointer coupled between said boom and a support structure, said boom pointer operable to positionally orient said boom.

24. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein said boom pointer comprises a one axis or two axis gimbal.

25. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein said support structure comprises a terrestrial support structure or satellite support structure.

26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein said support structure comprises a terrestrial support structure or satellite support structure.

27. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a terrestrial support structure or satellite support structure, wherein said apparatus coupled to said terrestrial support structure or said satellite support structure .

28. A method of making an apparatus, comprising: extending a reflector from a reflector center aperture to a reflector perimeter edge; extending a first net from a first net center aperture to a first net perimeter edge, said first net having a first net inner surface opposite a first net outer surface, said first net outer surface supporting said reflector; extending a second net from a second net center aperture to a second net perimeter edge, said second net having a second net inner surface opposite a second net outer surface, said second net inner surface facing said first net inner surface; passing a boom through said first net center aperture, said second net center aperture and said reflector center aperture; disposing a truss circumferentially about said boom, coupling said truss to said first net at a plurality of points along said first net perimeter edge; coupling said truss to said second net at plurality of points along said second net perimeter edge; andcoupling a truss deployer to said truss, said truss deployer operable to deploy said truss between a truss stowed condition and a truss deployed condition, said truss in said truss deployed condition tensioning said first net and said second net.

29. The method of claim 28, further comprising: coupling said plurality of points of said first net perimeter edge to a corresponding one of a plurality of batten first ends; and coupling said plurality of points of said second net perimeter edge to a corresponding one of a plurality of batten second ends.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising: connecting a first plurality of longerons to adjacent pairs of said plurality of batten first ends; and connecting a second plurality of longerons to adjacent pairs of said plurality of batten second ends.

31. The method of claim 30, further comprising: connecting one of a plurality of diagonal members to one of said plurality of batten first ends and to an adjacent one of said plurality of batten second ends; and connecting one of said plurality of diagonal members connects said adjacent one of said plurality of batten second ends to another adjacent one of said plurality of batten first ends.

32. The method of claim 31, further comprising: coupling a truss deployer to said truss; wherein a cable routed through said plurality of diagonals; and wherein said cable coupled to on a cable reel of said truss deployer, said cable reel rotatable to wind said cable about said cable reel to deploy said truss.

33. The method of claim 32, further comprising: coupling a truss deployment controller to said boom, wherein a spool axis of a spool disposed in common with a longitudinal axis of said boom;wherein at least one cord winds about said spool, said at least one cord extending to at least one of said plurality of battens, said spool rotatable to pay out said at least one cord to control deployment of said truss from said truss stowed condition to said truss deployed condition.

34. A method, comprising: extending a reflector from a reflector center aperture to a reflector perimeter edge; extending a first net from a first net center aperture to a first net perimeter edge, said first net having a first net inner surface opposite a first net outer surface, said first net outer surface supporting said reflector; extending a second net from a second net center aperture to a second net perimeter edge, said second net having a second net inner surface opposite a second net outer surface, said second net inner surface facing said first net inner surface; passing a boom through said first net center aperture, said second net center aperture and said reflector center aperture; disposing a truss circumferentially about said boom, coupling said truss to said first net at a plurality of points along said first net perimeter edge; coupling said truss to said second net at plurality of points along said second net perimeter edge; and coupling a truss deployer to said truss, said truss deployer operable to deploy said truss between a truss stowed condition and a truss deployed condition, said truss in said truss deployed condition tensioning said first net and said second net; coupling a spoke interface to said boom, including: a first interface plate having a first interface plate central aperture; a second interface plate having a second interface plate central aperture, wherein said boom passes through each of said first and second inface plate center apertures, wherein said first interface plate disposed a distance from said second interface plate on said boom; correspondingly extending a first plurality of spokes from said first interface plate to said plurality of batten first ends; andcorrespondingly extending a second plurality of spokes from said second interface plate to said plurality of second batten ends.

35. The method of claim 33, wherein said at least one cord extending to at least one of said plurality of battens comprises a spoke.

36. The method of claim 34, wherein said boom comprises: a boom outer segment having a boom outer segment first end opposite a boom outer segment second end, said first interface plate and said second interface plate disposed on said boom outer segment; and a boom inner segment having a boom inner segment first end opposite a boom inner segment second end, said boom inner segment telescopingly engaged within said boom outer segment.

37. The method of claim 36, further comprising coupling a boom deployer to said boom inner segment, said boom deployer operable to extend said boom inner segment second end a distance outside of said boom outer segment.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein said boom deployer comprises: a sheave having a sheave axis disposed in parallel with a longitudinal axis of said boom; a first pulley affixed to said boom outer segment first end; a second pully affixed to said boom outer segment second end; a third pully affixed to said boom inner segment first end; and a wire extending from said spool and engaging said first pulley, said second pully, and said third pully with a wire terminal end affixed proximate said boom inner segment second end.

39. The method of claim 36, wherein said boom inner segment comprises a plurality of boom inner segments telescopingly engaged inside said boom outer segment.

40. The method of claim 39, further comprising coupling a boom deployer to said plurality of boom inner segments, said boom deployer operable to extend said plurality of boom inner segments a distance outside of said boom outer segment.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein said boom deployer comprises: a sheave having a sheave axis disposed in parallel with a longitudinal axis of said boom; a first pulley affixed to said boom outer segment first end; a second pully affixed to said boom outer segment second end; a third pully affixed to a first boom inner segment first end; a fourth pully affixed to a first boom inner segment second end; a fifth pully affixed to a second boom inner segment first end; and a wire extending from said spool and engaging said first pulley, said second pully, said third pully, said fourth pulley and said fifth pulley with a wire terminal end affixed proximate said second boom inner segment second end.

42. The method of claim 37, further comprising coupling a feed to said boom inner segment second end.

43. The method of claim 42, further comprising configuring said feed to emit a signal which directly illuminates said reflector.

44. The method of claim 42, further comprising coupling a sub-reflector to said boom inner segment second end.

45. The method of claim 44, further comprising coupling a feed to said boom inner segment second end below said sub-reflector, said sub-reflector reflects a signal from said feed to illuminate said reflector.

46. The method of claim 28, further comprising coupling a boom hinge between said boom and a support structure, said boom hinge operable between a hinge first condition disposing said boom in a boom stowed condition and a hinge second condition disposing said boom in a boom deployed condition.

47. The method of claim 46, wherein said boom hinge comprises: a first cup rotatably coupled to a second cup; said first cup configured to couple to said support structure and said second cup configured couple to said boom; a biasing pin telescopingly engaged to said second cup, said pin spring biased against telescoping movement in relation to said second cup; an over-center linkage including: a drive link having a drive link first end opposite a drive ling second end; a drag link having a drag link first end and a drag link second end, said drive link first end pivotally to said biasing pin; said drive link second end pivotally joined to said drag link second end.

48. The method of claim 46, further comprising coupling a boom pointer to said boom hinge, said boom pointer operable to positionally orient said boom coupled to said boom hinge.

49. The method of claim 48, wherein said boom pointer comprises a one axis or two axis gimbal.

50. The method of claim 28, further comprising coupling a boom pointer between said boom and a support structure, said boom pointer operable to positionally orient said boom.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein said boom pointer comprises a one axis or two axis gimbal.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein said support structure comprises a terrestrial support structure or satellite support structure.

53. The method of claim 28, further comprising coupling said boom to a terrestrial support structure or satellite support structure.

54. A method, comprising: deploying a center fed antenna from a stowed condition, wherein said center fed antenna comprises:a reflector having a reflector center aperture; a first net extending from a first net center aperture to a first net perimeter edge, said first net having a first net inner surface opposite a first net outer surface, said first net outer surface supporting said reflector; a second net extending from a second net center aperture to a second net perimeter edge, said second net having a second net inner surface opposite a second net outer surface, said second net inner surface facing said first net inner surface; a boom passing through said first net center aperture, said second net center aperture and said reflector center aperture; a truss circumferentially disposed about said boom, said truss includes: a plurality of battens each having a batten length disposed between a batten first end and a batten second end, said batten first ends coupled to said first net at a plurality of points along said first net perimeter edge, said batten second ends coupled to said second net at plurality of points along said second net perimeter edge; a first plurality of longerons rotatably connecting adjacent pairs of said plurality of batten first ends; and a second plurality of longerons rotatably connecting adjacent pairs of said plurality of batten second ends; a plurality of diagonal members, wherein one of said plurality of diagonal members rotatably connects one of said plurality of batten first ends to an adjacent one of said plurality of batten second ends; and wherein another one of said plurality of diagonal members rotatably connects said adjacent one of said plurality of batten second ends to another adjacent one of said plurality of batten first ends; operating a truss deployer to move said truss away from said boom; and tensioning said first net and said second net to achieve an operational configuration of said reflector to receive or transmit radio frequency signals.

55. The method of claim 54, further comprising winding a cable routed through said plurality of diagonal members of said truss about a cable reel of said truss deployer to increase the angle between each pair of diagonal members connected to said batten first end and increase the angle between each pair of diagonal members connected to said batten second end.

56. A method, comprising: deploying a center fed antenna from a stowed condition, wherein said center fed antenna comprises: a reflector having a reflector center aperture; a first net extending from a first net center aperture to a first net perimeter edge, said first net having a first net inner surface opposite a first net outer surface, said first net outer surface supporting said reflector; a second net extending from a second net center aperture to a second net perimeter edge, said second net having a second net inner surface opposite a second net outer surface, said second net inner surface facing said first net inner surface; a boom passing through said first net center aperture, said second net center aperture and said reflector center aperture; a truss circumferentially disposed about said boom, said truss includes: a plurality of battens each having a batten length disposed between a batten first end and a batten second end, said batten first ends coupled to said first net at a plurality of points along said first net perimeter edge, said batten second ends coupled to said second net at plurality of points along said second net perimeter edge; a first plurality of longerons rotatably connecting adjacent pairs of said plurality of batten first ends; and a second plurality of longerons rotatably connecting adjacent pairs of said plurality of batten second ends;a plurality of diagonal members, wherein one of said plurality of diagonal members rotatably connects one of said plurality of batten first ends to an adjacent one of said plurality of batten second ends; and wherein another one of said plurality of diagonal members rotatably connects said adjacent one of said plurality of batten second ends to another adjacent one of said plurality of batten first ends; operating a truss deployer to move said truss away from said boom; and tensioning said first net and said second net to achieve an operational configuration of said reflector to receive or transmit radio frequency signals; correspondingly extending a first plurality of spokes from a first interface plate coupled to said boom to said plurality of batten first ends; and correspondingly extending a second plurality of spokes from said second interface plate coupled to said boom to said plurality of second batten ends.

57. The method of claim 54, further comprising: operating a truss deployment controller coupled to said boom to pay out at least one cord wound about a spool, said at least one cord extending from said spool to at least one of said plurality of battens, said cord applies a low pound-force load between the boom and the batten to control deployment of said truss.

58. The method of claim 54, further comprising operating a boom deployer to telescopingly extend a boom inner segment of said boom from a boom outer segment of said boom.

59. The method of claim 58, further comprising: generating a signal from a feed coupled said boom inner segment; and directly illuminating said reflector with said signal.

60. The method of claim 58, further comprising: generating a signal from a feed coupled said boom inner segment; reflecting said signal from a sub -reflector; and illuminating said reflector with said signal.

61. The method of claim 54, further comprising: generating aperture diameter of said reflector between about 3 meters to 25 meters; and operating said center fed antenna in a frequency range of about 2 Hz to about 16 Hz.

62. The method of claim 61, wherein said aperture diameter and said frequency range are selected from the group consisting of: an aperture diameter of 3 meters operate at about 14 Hz, an aperture diameter of 5 meters operated at about 9 Hz, an aperture diameter of about 7 meters can operate at about 8 Hz, an aperture diameter of about 10 meters can operate at about 5 Hz, an aperture diameter of about 15 meters can operate at about 3 Hz, an aperture diameter of 20 meters can operate at about 2 Hz.

63. The method of claim 62, further comprising operating said center fed antenna with a gain at 10 GHz in the range of about 48db to about 64db.

64. The method of claim 63, wherein said aperture diameter and said gain at 10 GHz selected from the group consisting of: an aperture diameter of 3 meters operated at a gain of about 48 db, an aperture diameter of 5 meters operated at gain of about 52 db, an aperture diameter of about 7 meters can operate at gain of about 56 db, an aperture diameter of about 10 meters can operate at a gain of about 59 db, an aperture diameter of about 15 meters can operate at gain of about 61 db, an aperture diameter of 20 meters can operate at gain of about 64 db.

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