ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Adcock antenna

An Adcock antenna is like a really great treasure map for finding where certain radio signals are coming from. Think of it like a special kind of compass that helps you find your way to things you can't see. It has four poles that stick up into the air, and wires that connect between them in a special way.

When a radio signal comes along and reaches the Adcock antenna, it bounces around between the wires and poles in a special pattern, kind of like playing catch with your friends. The Adcock antenna can feel these bounces and use them to figure out where the signal is coming from. It's like tracing the footsteps of someone who left clues behind.

With an Adcock antenna, people can figure out where radio signals are coming from, even if they can't see the thing sending the signal. For example, if a radio station is broadcasting its music from far away, an Adcock antenna can help people figure out which direction the music is coming from, just like a map helps you find your way to buried treasure.