Wave Height Measurement by Radar.

Abstract

Weight heights were measured by the use of a slightly modified NRL X-band nanosecond-pulse test radar. This equipment, mounted above the surface and looking down, provided a precision that is equivalent to that obtained from a through-the-surface wave sensor. Stable platforms 20 to 60 feet above the surface gave excellent results, and a brief test made with a helicopter flying 100 feet up at 60 to 100 knots forward speed indicated possibilities for this platform. Targets with a periodic change in range, such as a swinging sphere, were studied. The combination of nanosecond radar techniques and fixed platforms for looking vertically at the rough water surface permits wave heights to be measured in the open ocean where through-the-surface sensors are not practical. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 01, 1971
Accession Number
AD0719888

Entities

People

  • George F. Myers

Organizations

  • United States Naval Research Laboratory

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aircraft Equipment
  • Helicopters
  • Materials Handling Equipment
  • Measurement
  • Nanosecond Time
  • Pallets
  • Platforms
  • Precision
  • Radio Frequency Devices
  • Surface Waves
  • Vehicle Equipment
  • Vehicles
  • Waves
  • X Band

Readers

  • Marine Hydrodynamics
  • Radar Systems Engineering.