Large Aperture Array Constellation Concept: GEO-based constellation of small satellites creates a large effective aperture size, reducing mass on orbit, and reducing receiver size requirements. Key Features: Thin film photovoltaics used in large constellation of small sats Creates large effective aperture and grating lobes on the Earth's surface where power is collected Suggestor/Source: Gay Canough Discussion Diffraction patterns produce many grating lobes for ground collection by small receiver sites situated at grating lobes. Some lobes may appear at unwanted or unusable ground sites. Advantages Disadvantages High modularity Mass production benefits may be possible Unworkable orbital mechanics issues Sidelobe generation issues, and environmental impact Loss of any single satellite may impact power delivery
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