Parallel and perpendicular polarization of waves refers to their orientation relative to the plane of incidence, which is defined by the direction of wave propagation and a normal vector to the reflecting surface. In this context, a vertically polarized source horn aligns parallel to the plane of incidence when cut in the H-plane on a flat panel. The electric field components are categorized as p-like (parallel) for the component in the plane of incidence and s-like (perpendicular) for the component normal to it. Understanding these definitions clarifies the relationship between vertical/horizontal and parallel/perpendicular polarizations. This knowledge is essential for applications in radomes and wave propagation analysis.
