Low-Frequency Square Kilometer Array Pattern Optimization via Convex Programming

A well-known and powerful convex optimization strategy is exploited to enhance the electromagnetic performance of the Square Kilometer Array Low-Frequency radio telescope. The proposed method minimizes the peak sidelobe level while ensuring full control of the receiving pattern across the entire angular domain. The approach is validated through full-wave simulations that incorporate realistic embedded element patterns, demonstrating significant improvements in sidelobe suppression despite the geometric constraints of the array structure. The achieved results underscore the method’s potential for high-performance beam synthesis in large-scale radio astronomy arrays.