The objective of this basic research is to design and develop a low-frequency, ultra-wide band (UWE) antenna. Such an antenna combined with a pulse-generating radar system would be capable of penetrating and detecting targets through foliage, ice, snow, and even earth. Development of appropriate radar systems is state-of-the-art except for the antenna, which requires a breakthrough in technology. MWT proposes researching breakthru technology including the spiral-mode microstrip (SMM) antenna, the sinuous and the log-periodic tooth antenna. A recently declassified low loss dielectric as well as artificial dielectrics offer potential for achieving low loss size reductions. Feasibility laboratory experiments are planned during the Phase I research. If the results are acceptable, we plan to fabricate and demonstrate such an antenna during Phase II. There are a large number of commercial applications for low-frequency, UWB radar. Utility companies need methods to non-intrusively locate underground wires and pipes. Construction companies need non-intrusive methods of inspecting roads, bridges, and railroad beds to locate internal faults. Such antennas would also find many uses in commercial TV and telecommunications applications.
