Optically remoted probe for sensing of RF in aerospace radars

The improvement of radar reliability may require the detection and monitoring of its handled power. For this purpose, a new sensor concept based on an optically remoted RF probe was investigated. This work presents such a dedicated photonic system. The optical probe allows dual-regime operations: testing both radar transmit and receive operations. This monitoring performs not only “Go - No Go” tests, but could also be used for calibration. The paper reports the preliminary demonstrations. A new optoelectronic transducer was realised and a mock-up of probe was assembled and tested.