A reactively controlled array over ground plane for hemispherical coverage

The results presented here represent the beginning of an investigation of a new class of reactively controlled arrays. The array extends only lambda/2 above the ground plane. Hence, it could find use in applications where a quasi- conformal antenna with a moderate amount of pattern control is needed. Although fully excited conformal phased arrays are likely to provide better performance than this one, reactively controlled arrays have the advantages of low cost, light weight, and simplicity of construction.