Graded Index Superstate Layer for Large Scan Angle Phased Arrays

This paper discusses the use of a graded index superstrate scan layer to improve phased array scan performance. The graded index superstrate uses novel 3D printing techniques to develop an improved impedance matching layer to better match the antenna array to free-space. This superstrate layer is fabricated and tested using a waveguide technique to simulate an infinite array. These measurements are used as a comparison to validate the technique and anchor the simulations for extensions to finite array design.