Millimeter Wave Imaging Arrays

A new generation of video rate millimeter wave imaging technologies are being developed and applied in a variety of applications such as low visibility navigation, remote sensing, concealed weapons detection, radio astronomical observations, and magnetic fusion plasma diagnostics. At UC Davis, we have been focused on technology aimed at an understanding of and turbulence transport physics where computer simulations have visualized complex three-dimensional (3-D) simulation of plasma structures with the aid of advanced simulation techniques and computational power. A collaborative effort involving PPPL and FOM, and UC Davis has resulted in the development of a unique combined Electron Cyclotron Emission (ECE) radiometry and Millimeter Wave reflectometry (MIR) system to provide a true 2-D imaging of electron temperature and electron density for the TEXTOR fusion device. Representive photos of fabricated imaging antenna arrays are shown below.

18 Channel Dual Dipole Antenna Array for MIR System

20 Channel Dual Dipole Antenna Array for ECEI System

Dual dipole mixer antenna imaging arrays are under development for use in plasma diagnostic of different fusion devices such as KSTAR, HT-7, and NSTX. The characteristic frequencies of magnetic confinement fusion plasmas determine the RF frequency requirement of the imaging antenna. The following table lists the required RF frequency range for various fusion devices. 

The following describes the development of planar antenna mixer imaging array including planar antenna investigations, broadband balun realization, and imaging array measurements.

Contact with Zhengang Xia