The DTU-ESA 12 GHz Validation Standard Antenna – New Reference Pattern

The DTU-ESA 12 GHz Validation Standard (VAST12) Antenna has been updated with an integrated precision spirit level to ensure that different measurement facilities use the same coordinate system; in particular, the same polarization reference angle. The coordinate system defined by this integrated level is closely aligned with the previously used coordinate system, but it has anyway been necessary to define a new reference pattern from a range of measurements conducted at the DTU-ESA Spherical Near-Field Antenna Test Facility. In addition, an investigation has been conducted on the influence of the termination of the central open tube of the VAST12 antenna support structure on the radiation pattern. It is found that a well-defined termination is required for a unique pattern.