Ionospheric Earth Backscatter Simulation Applied to Over-the-Horizon Radar
Abstract
A precision ionospheric ray-tracing technique has been developed to predict in detail the distribution of earth backscatter measured by a high- frequency over-the-horizon radar. A first-generation version of this technique was reported in NRL Report 6731. By making use of observed earth-backscatter distributions, in conjunction with ionospheric sounding data, it has been possible to refine the ray-tracing technique and improve its performance in predicting signatures of over-the-horizon rocket launches. In particular, it has been possible to predict the time of signature onset more precisely with these improvements. This ray-tracing technique could be used in an operational over-the-horizon radar to provide, in near real time, estimates of trajectory parameters for actual hostile missile launches. Implementation of this capability in an operational radar would require the use of a sophisticated hybrid (digital/analog) computer as an integral part of the radar controller and signal processor.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 20, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0501322
Entities
People
- Edwin L. Althouse
- Frank W. Chambers
- John R. Davis
- John W. Willis
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory