Have anyone come across a COTS antenna solution for L Band frequencies (L1/L2/L5). I had been attempting to use passive GPS pucks (dual feed circular stacked patch element) but was getting “wild” DoA results when testing in a chamber. My best guess is that the phase is varying from element to element. Before having to build a complete custom array I was curious if anyone else has found a cheaper/quicker solution? i.e trimming CB antennas and precisely mounting to a ground plane.
I have had cheap active GPS pucks working in a linear array with minimal phase shift. (Cheap ones probably work best because they have no filter.)
I think patch antennas will only work well in a linear array. If you use them in a circular array the radiation pattern towards the horizon is not good, and it may receive reflections from the peak beam direction more strongly which will dominate.
In addition to the filters, most respectable pucks have a LNA and I could see that causing issues with phase. If you have or have access to a 3d printer, I would think heavily about building your own array. An L band array should be small enough to print the entire project in one job on a standard size printer. That would at least provide support for the antennas and very repeatable.
Just my .02,
Devan