Single-polarized, dielectric-free, Vivaldi tapered slot phased array: performance prediction

A single-polarized, dielectric-free, balanced-fed Vivaldi tapered slot array with backside reflector is a promising antenna candidate for large, broadband phased arrays with high performance. In contrast to antennas on dielectric substrates, the dielectric-free configuration is cheaper and easier to fabricate. This work reflects a preliminary study of such a phased array antenna to be potentially employed in the Thousand Element Array project (THEA) for an advanced radio telescope.