A RADAR REFRACTION CORRECTION FOR SYMMETRIC AND NONSYMMETRIC TROPOSPHERIC INDEX DISTRIBUTIONS
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to approach the mathematics of the refraction problem from the basic differential equation of the ray path in a variable-velocity type of medium. The rue refraction mechanism, the gradient of the refractive index along the ray path irrespective of the symmetric properties of the medium is emphasized. In order to emphasize the source of ray theory, the radar refraction problem is initiated from an assumed field solution of MAXWELL'S EQUATIONS. A discussion of methods applicable to an atmosphere characterized by spherical symmetry is given. The concept is applied to the spherically symmetric atmosphere to fcilitate a detailed exaination of the approxmations made in the development of the method as well as to indicate the applicability of the concept to this widely used model. Initial investigation indicates excellent results are obtained at launch angles of 1 degree or less when true range is assumed known and the target position error due to bending is desired in the sphercally symmetric atmosphere characterized by regions of constant dn/dR. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0287484
Entities
People
- Donald C. Thorn
- Ralph J. Rainey
Organizations
- University of New Mexico