Measurement of low gain VHF array element in hemispherical NF antenna test range

Accurate measurements on low gain antennas at VHF frequencies are very demanding due to the limited dimensions of available test ranges. This paper presents the findings and post processing issues involved in the verification measurement on a low gain VHF antenna array element with minimized mass and dimensions developed for space application and suitable for an Automatic Identification System (AIS). The testing has been performed in a hemispherical spherical near field antenna test range of Renault in Aubevoye, France.