Guidelines for Reducing the Effect of Meteorological Precipitation on Reflector Antenna Radio Performance

To resolve the contradiction between the technical possibilities of using millimeter wave antennas in communication, radiolocation and radio navigation systems and the significant losses of millimeter wave electromagnetic energy in hydrometeors, it is proposed to minimize the effect of rain on the radio characteristics of the antenna at the design stage. Having analyzed the known methods of protection of reflector antennas from meteorological precipitation in the light of the formulated criteria, together with the methods of water run-off from the reflector surface, scientifically justified recommendations have been formulated in order to minimize the influence of moisture on the antenna's radio characteristics. In particular, 1) the most effective way to reduce the effect of moisture is to apply superhydrophobic coatings to the reflector surface, which essentially eliminate the appearance of a water film. Coating area depends on antenna operating conditions (climatic area of antenna location and antenna elevation angle). 2) If it is not possible to apply a hydrophobic coating, it is recommended to install a device to correct the shape of the radiation pattern, taking into account the possible distortion of the reflector profile depending on the parameters of the precipitation layer in the reflector. Statistical meteorological data can provide information on the parameters of the precipitation layer.