Simulation and Testing of a Linear Array of Modified Four-Square Feed Antennas for the Tianlai Cylindrical Radio Telescope

Abstract: A wide bandwidth, dual polarized, modified four-square antenna is presented as a feed antenna for radio astronomical measurements. A linear array of these antennas is used as a line-feed for cylindrical reflectors for Tianlai, a radio interferometer designed for 21~cm intensity mapping. Simulations of the feed antenna beam patterns and scattering parameters are compared to experimental results at multiple frequencies across the 650 - 1420 MHz range. Simulations of the beam patterns of the combined feed array/reflector are presented as well.