Characterization of tapered-slot antenna designs for subsurface radar applications

Some characteristics of ultra-wideband tapered-slot antennas important in subsurface radar applications such as return loss, radiation pattern and low variation of the antenna response with respect to variations of the distance between the antenna and reflecting surface have been analyzed. Three types of the antenna opening, namely exponential Vivaldi type, elliptical flare with corrugated edges and elliptical flare have been studied. All the antennas had been fed by baluns formed of microstrip and slotline radial stubs.