A radome (or radar dome) is a weatherproof enclosure used to protect an antenna. It is used mainly to prevent ice (especially freezing rain) from accumulating directly onto the metal surface of the antenna. For stationary antennas, excessive amounts of ice can de-tune the antenna to the point where its impedance at the input frequency rises drastically. This can lead to reflected power going back to the transmitter, where it can cause overheating. Photo credit: JO1 Preston Keres U.S. Navy |