Optically modulated scatterer probe for in-situ antenna monitoring

Traditionally antenna arrays are optimized and measured under ideal conditions usually in anechoic chamber. However, when the antenna is placed in a real environment (in the presence of near field scatterers), its radiation characteristics can be significantly perturbed compared to the ideal case. This paper presents a non-invasive solution to monitor antenna radiated performance with an embedded diagnostic system. The Optically Modulated Scatterer Technique is implemented. The performances of the OMS probe are analyzed both with static and dynamic characterization.