Abstract: A planar array of linearly polarized antenna elements, each element tilted so that its polarization orientation is disposed at an angle with respect to the array vertical axis so that array polarization loss is minimized as a function of roll about an array normal. Half of the elements are tilted uniformly at a positive angle with respect to the array vertical axis and the remaining elements are tilted at a negative angle with respect to the array vertical axis. The invention substantially reduces the unwanted variation in received RF energy magnitude as a function of array roll angle caused by polarization loss, for both vertical and horizontal components. The vertically polarized signal component magnitude remains nearly constant with respect to array roll angle values of 50.degree.-60.degree. and more. If the element tilt angle magnitude is between 0.degree.-45.degree.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for identifying sidelobe transmitted and/or received radar signals. The apparatus is utilized in a radar system having a transmitter for generating at least one detection signal, an antenna system defining a mainbeam and sidelobe radiation pattern for transmitting each detection signal and for receiving electromagnetic signals including echo signals each corresponding to a reflection from an object of a transmitted detection signal, and a receiver system for processing each received echo signal. The apparatus is embodied as a system for identifying each echo signal received upon the antenna system sidelobe and each received echo signal having a corresponding detection signal transmitted on the antenna system sidelobe.

Abstract: A system for discriminating between signals received on the mainbeam of an antenna system and signals received on the sidelobe of the antenna system. The system utilizes a main antenna and multiple auxiliary antennas. The signals received on the main antenna are coincident on one or more of the auxiliary antennas. The auxillary antenna signals are multiplexed separated for single channel processing. The main antenna signal is compared with each of the multiplexed auxiliary antenna signals. The result of these comparisons are used to determine whether the signal received on the main antenna was received on a mainbeam or a sidelobe.

Abstract: A scanning antenna comprises a non-magnetic, electrically conductive radiation horn defining an antenna opening having a predetermined central line of focus, and at least one magnetically switchable conductive element such as a reed relay mounted to extend across the antenna opening perpendicular to and spaced from the central line of focus. A magnetic field generator such as an electromagnet is positioned to generate a magnetic field to control switching of the conductive element between its conductive and non-conductive states, and a control circuit controls operation of the magnetic field generator.

Abstract: Systems for discriminating between signals on the mainbeam of an antenna and signals on the sidelobes of the antenna are disclosed.