Using the "Moon Echo Project" capability, two Echo Tests were performed in order to evaluate the performance of the new 17-Element RPOL as RX antenna.
Here is the setup that was used for the first test:
TX: 2X14 RPOL, 965 watts (polarity = 45 degrees)
RX: 1X17 RPOL LFA (polarity = 0 degree)
NO GROUND GAIN
After having optimized the polarities of both antenna systems for best signals, the overall Echos recorded were of excellent quality, that is generally in the -17dB to -23dB range (see 1st video to the right). The Echo "trail" is clearly visible on the waterfall at around +360 Hz. On a few occasions during that evening, I even recorded Echos in the -15dB range! We can see one of them on the video at N = 218 (-15.4 dB).
***WARNING: For Best Resolution for the videos below, it is critical to select 720p HD resolution in the youtube "settings" at bottom right of the player. The 360p default setting won't yield good enough resolution to see the details. It will take several seconds before the High Resolution kicks in, so you will need to restart the video from the beginning when the High Resolution is active and select to view the video in "Full Screen Mode" for best experience...***
A second Moon Echo Test was performed a few days later (2nd video to the right below). Here is the setup that was used for the second test:
TX: 2X14 RPOL, 965 watts (polarity = 80 degrees)
RX: 1X17 RPOL LFA (polarity = 0 degree)
NO GROUND GAIN
Once again, the quality of the echos obtained was outstanding!
As described in the previous sections, the ability to be able to produce its own Echos "at will" is immensely useful. In addition to all the benefits described in Section 25, it is also an excellent way to do a basic "Quality Control" prior to getting on the air to ensure that the EME station is performing as it should. Obviously, it is also an excellent way to evaluate the quality of the EME conditions on a given day.
The initial results obtained with this 17-Element antenna are very promising and I cannot more excited about it!
***WARNING: For Best Resolution for the videos below, it is critical to select 720p HD resolution in the youtube "settings" at bottom right of the player. The 360p default setting won't yield good enough resolution to see the details. It will take several seconds before the High Resolution kicks in, so you will need to restart the video from the beginning when the High Resolution is active and select to view the video in "Full Screen Mode" for best experience...***
Below Azimuth Plot (free space) of the 17-Element RPOL:
