Challenger 3.8m C, Ku-Band Prime Focus Satellite Antenna
The Challenger 3.8m Prime Focus Antenna is a precision-built, large-aperture system for professional satellite ground stations. Designed for C and Ku-band operation, it offers high gain, low noise reception, and multi-feed capabilities. It’s ideal for teleports, broadcasters, and commercial downlink sites needing robust, accurate performance.
The 3.8m reflector is built from 16 draw die-formed aluminum petals with a powder-coated finish for long-term durability. Radial beams and outboard skirts are constructed from galvanneal steel and also powder coated. The antenna is available in both fixed Az-El head or dual-axis motorized mounts, supporting ±90° polarization rotation and continuous azimuth travel.
With up to 125 mph survival wind rating and efficient shipping size, the Challenger 3.8m system is engineered for reliability, flexibility, and performance in all conditions.
Key Features
- 3.8m segmented prime focus reflector with 0.020" RMS surface accuracy
- Supports C-band and Ku-band operation with linear or circular polarization
- Available in Az-El fixed or dual-axis motorized mount options
- Multi-feed support for up to 4 feeds
- 360° azimuth and ±90° polarization adjustment
- Powder-coated aluminum reflector and galvanneal steel support
- 125 mph wind survival rating; 60 mph operational
- Stainless steel hardware included
- Made in the USA
Technical Specifications
- Reflector Size: 3.8 meters
- Reflector Construction: 16 die-formed aluminum petals
- Mount Options: Az-El Fixed Pipe Head or Dual Axis Motorized
- Surface Accuracy: 0.020 in. RMS
- Focal Distance: 62.5 inches
- F/D Ratio: 0.413
- Azimuth Travel: 360° continuous (Az-El), 120° arc (motorized)
- Elevation Travel: 5°–90° (Az-El), 20°–90° (motorized)
- Polarization Travel: ±90°
- Frequency Ranges (Receive):
- Ku-Band: 10.95–12.75 GHz
- C-Band: 3.625–4.2 GHz
- Midband Gain:
- Ku-Band: 50.3 dBi
- C-Band: 41.5 dBi
- Noise Temperature @10° Elevation:
- Ku-Band: 55K
- C-Band: 50K
- VSWR (Rx): 1.4:1 (both bands)
- Polarization Isolation: 30 dB (Linear)
- Feed Flanges:
- Ku-Band: WR75
- C-Band: CPR229G
- Operational Wind: 60 mph
- Survival Wind: 125 mph
- Temperature Range: –40°C to 60°C operational, –60°C to 82°C survival
- Rain Load: 5 in/hr (operational), 3 in/hr (survival)
- Ice Load: 1 in radial; 0.5 in with 60 mph gusts
- Weight: 685–715 lbs depending on mount
