Radiation Pattern and Radiation Spectrum of the Plasma Asymmetrical Dipole Antenna

Results of comparative experimental studies of the radiation patterns and radiation spectra of the plasma asymmetrical dipole antenna and metal asymmetrical dipole antenna are presented. It is shown that the directions of the main and lateral lobes of the radiation patterns of both antennas are the same; however, the amplitude of the main lobe of the plasma antenna pattern is lower and it has a higher directionality. The recorded spectrum of the continuous-wave signal allows one to estimate power losses for plasma generation in the plasma antenna. The spectrum demonstrates nonlinear amplification of the multiple harmonics of the signal frequency. The possible causes of these nonlinear distortions and the means to decrease them are discussed.