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The Influence of Atmospheric Conditions on Radar Performance

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 January 2010

J. A. Saxton
Affiliation:
(Radio Research Station, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research)

Abstract

The paper reviews the influence of gaseous absorption and of precipitation of various forms in the atmosphere on the performance of centimetre-wave radar equipment, special reference being made to the phenomena to be expected at a wavelength of 3 cm, in view of the wide use of this wavelength for marine navigational radar. The greatest adverse effect is caused by widespread heavy rain, which leads to serious reductions of detection range, particularly in tropical-equatorial regions. The influence of super-refraction in the atmosphere is also discussed, and it is shown how skip effects may occur at times at certain ranges.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © The Royal Institute of Navigation 1958

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References

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