What type of antenna dish directs RF energy out of a flared section of waveguide called a horn?

A parabolic antenna is designed to direct RF energy efficiently, using the geometric properties of a parabolic shape. In this case, the flared section of the waveguide, known as a horn, acts as the feed element that couples the RF signals into and out of the parabolic dish.

When RF energy is emitted from the horn, it does so in a manner that takes advantage of the parabolic curvature of the dish. The design ensures that waves coming from the feed are reflected and focused into a parallel beam, which optimizes the range and directionality of the transmitted signal. This feature is particularly beneficial for radar applications, where precision and distance are critical.

The other types of antennas listed do not employ this method of RF energy direction. Directional antennas can focus energy as well, but they do so without the specific parabolic structure. Cylindrical antennas have different beam characteristics and are generally used for different applications. Arrays consist of multiple antennas working together, but again do not focus energy in the same way as a parabolic dish does. Thus, the parabolic antenna is the correct choice for the type of antenna that directs RF energy from a horn.