Plasma Antenna With Electro-Optical Modular
Abstract
A plasma antenna is provided. An ionizer generates an ionizing beam in a bounded or unbounded plasma column extending along a vertical axis. An amplitude or frequency modulating signal is applied to an electro-optical crystal that amplitude, phase, or frequency modulates the ionizing beam. The resulting changes in the ionizing beam produce gradients in the plasma that cause ions and electrons to oscillate in a vertical path that generates alternating current having the frequency of the modulator. These currents generate an amplitude-or phase- modulated electromagnetic field that radiates from the plasma column.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 21, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADD019503
Entities
People
- Robert J. Aiksnoras
- Theodore R. Anderson
Organizations
- United States Department of the Navy