An encapsulated dipole shaped beam array for air traffic control

Abstract

An encapsulated dipole array has been developed for use as an aircraft beacon interrogator antenna, the high gain open planar array. The interrogator antenna provides a highly shaped beam which provides elevation coverage to greater than 50 degrees elevation over the frequency range of 1026.5 to 1095 MHz. In addition, three channels of performance are provided (sum, difference and sidelobe suppression). The design procedure and resulting performance are presented.<>