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Abstract

An antenna-radome structure that functions as a self-referencing interferometer, including a radome having a leading edge and including a plurality of longitudinally disposed slabs of dielectric material having a front edge adjacent the leading edge of the radome; and a corresponding number of antennas disposed normal to the longitudinal axis of the radome and respectively embedded in or placed on the surface of each corresponding dielectric slab. Each antenna is located at a distance from the front end of the corresponding dielectric slab corresponding to a maximum of intensity in an intensity fringe pattern produced by interference between free space waves of a predetermined frequency incident upon the dielectric slab and waves guided by the dielectric slab in response to the incident waves. The thickness of each dielectric slab is tapered for reducing sidelobe levels in the far field pattern of the antenna. A metal foil covers the rear end of each slab for reducing backlobes in the far field antenna pattern and for reducing reflection of the guided waves. Wires are embedded in or placed on the surface of each dielectric slab for defining the shape of the far field of the antenna and for reducing sidelobe levels in the far field pattern of the antenna. Additional antennas may be disposed normal to the longitudinal axis of the radome.

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First Claim