Controlled High Order Mode Generation for Tracking Coupler Bench Test

The calibration of a monopulse tracking system is typically performed using a calibration tower or a known satellite. This work proposes a simple yet effective technique to excite in a controlled way all the modes generated by the antenna and used to obtain the Σ and Δ signals. This allows to test in lab the tracking system, thus reducing both costs and antenna downtime. The theoretical fundamentals are discussed and the design of the waveguide mode exciter at Ku band is reported along with experimental validation.