Modeling and manufacturing of a series of identical antennas for a P-Band ice sounder

The most relevant aspects related to the modeling and manufacturing of the basic antennas of a P-Band ice sounder array are described. A robust basic element design insensitive to technological or construction tolerances and fulfilling electrical and very demanding mechanical specifications is presented. These goals have been attained after an exhaustive HFSS™ simulation campaign, which has been efficiently performed with the help of a home made software tool, also presented here. After this campaign a series of 8 identical antennas, able to perfectly operate in the harsh arctic environment, has been absolutely in home manufactured at EPFL.