The SKA Aperture Array Verification System: Measured Digitally-Beam-Formed Radiation Patterns

The Aperture Array Verification System stimulated extensive test activities towards the development of the low-frequency instrument (50-350 MHz) of the Square Kilometer Array. This paper discusses radiation patterns measurements carried out on a 16-element array prototype with full digital beam-forming. A micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicle was adopted as the automatic positioner for the test source.