Success Stories: Enabling Emergency Communications

Company	GATR Technologies (Huntsville, AL)
Technology	Satellite Communications Terminal
MDA Use	GATR was funded to develop a deployable satellite communications terminal capable of providing high data-rate transmissions in remote areas for Ground-based Midcourse Defense.
Description	GATR's 70-pound beach-ball-shaped antenna anchors to the ground using wires and stakes and inflates with a blower. Inside, a parabolic-shaped reflector membrane is attached to the ball. Pressure is monitored on both sides of the reflector membrane by a sensor and blower. At the top of the ball a feed assembly allows the mounting of amplifiers and modulators. The 1.8-meter antenna is designed for X, Ku, and other bands. A lightweight mount holds the antenna and provides automated pointing and tracking.
Transfer / Insertion Opportunity	The portable communications system provides the transmission power benefits of a larger aperture antenna, with the portability of a smaller antenna, and it has successfully operated for long periods using only 1,000-watt off-the-shelf power. Potential application for the technology include . . . military and emergency communications remote braodcasts
Product Status	Commercially Available GATR's antenna technology was successfully used to enable communications after Hurricanes Ike and Katrina swept through the Gulf Coast.