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Phased Array

Array Antennas Microwave Directional Satellite

Many elements whose feed phases steer and shape the beam electronically.

Band
VHF to mmWave
Gain
Scales with element count (often 20-40+ dBi)
Polarization
Set by the elements (linear or circular)

Photos

Real-world photo of a Phased Array in use
Real-world example. Source: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain; NOAA).

Radiation / wave patterns

New to these diagrams? How to read a radiation pattern →

Radiation pattern of the Phased Array
A narrow beam whose direction is steered electronically, with nothing physically moving.

How & why it works

A phased array uses many small radiators whose individual feed phases (and often amplitudes) are controlled together. By advancing the phase progressively across the elements, the combined wavefront is tilted so the beam points in a chosen direction—without any of the antenna physically moving—and the same control can form nulls toward interference or split into multiple beams. Modern active arrays put a tiny amplifier and phase shifter behind every element, enabling near-instant, agile beam steering.

Real-world uses

Modern radar, 5G millimetre-wave base stations, satellite user terminals, and Starlink-style dishes.