UAV-Based “True” and “Pseudo” Antenna Pattern Measurements for Phased Array Radar

Phased Array Radars (PARs) are emerging as a cutting-edge technology for atmospheric observations, offering unprecedented capabilities in beamforming and rapid electronic beam steering. However, their complexity and the need for accurate calibration pose significant challenges. The use of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) in the characterization of these systems is being shown to be a robust and cost-effective approach, but their current development to meet demanding calibration requirements involves more research efforts. This paper reconsiders the role of the PAR and UAS in the traditional full raster scan approach to UAS-based radiation pattern characterization to address the existing limitations on the time and efficiency of such measurements. Leveraging recent advancements in both PAR and UAS technologies, the study introduces the use of antenna pseudo-patterns, which shifts the measurement-heavy paradigm from the UAS onto the faster-scanning PARs. Results from simulations and field measurements using the Horus radar show promising results with the proposed method. The findings indicate that pseudo-pattern measurements can reduce the aver-age time needed for the radiation pattern characterization of a PAR from approximately 22 minutes to under 2 minutes, with room for further optimization. This offers a promising and viable solution for fast and accurate PAR characterization over many beam positions.