Radome Electromagnetic Theory and Design

Chapter 1Introduction

The word radome, is an acronym of two words “radar” and “dome” and is a structural, weatherproof enclosure that protects the enclosed radar or communication antenna. The main objective of the radome is to be fully transparent to the electromagnetic energy transmitted/received by the enclosed antenna, and in this sense its objective is similar to that of a glass window for light in the optics spectrum. Radomes protect the antenna surfaces from weather and, in contrast to a glass window, can also conceal the antenna electronic equipment from the outside radome observer. Another benefit for using a radome is that it enables use of a low-power antenna rotating systems and weaker antenna mechanical design, followed by a significant price reduction, since the enclosed antenna is not exposed to the harsh outside weather. Radomes can be constructed in several shapes (spherical, geodesic, planar, etc.), depending on the particular application using various construction materials (e.g., fiberglass, quartz, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-coated fabric, closed cell foam (rohacell), honeycomb). The radomes are assembled on aircrafts, ships, cars, and in fixed ground-based installations. In case of high-speed moving platforms like aircrafts, another important consideration is related to the streamline shape of the radome to reduce its drag force.

The materials used to construct radomes are often used to prevent ice and freezing rain (sleet) from accumulating directly ...