Doppler Spectral Characteristics of High Latitude Ionospheric Irregularities: Effect on HF Radars.
Abstract
This report considers the Doppler spectral properties of radar signals scattered from high latitude E and F-region ionospheric irregularities. Although the exact mechanism for the production of F-region irregularities is not yet known, it appears that the Doppler shift from these as well as from E-region irregularities is determined by the ionospheric electric field via the E X B/B-squared drift velocity. The width of the backscattered spectra is determined by the viewing angle of the radar relative to the E X B/B-squared drift direction as well as the drift magnitude. Assuming an electrical potential distribution over the Earth's high latitude regions, it has been possible to predict the diurnal variability of the Doppler velocity and width associated with high latitude irregularities. Although some of these predictions agree with previous observations, considerably more knowledge is required of the high latitude potential distribution and its temporal variability. Finally, a novel new technique is proposed whereby through cross spectral analysis the detrimental effects of clutter due to ionospheric irregularities may be eliminated. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA101729
Entities
People
- Raymond A. Greenwald
Organizations
- Johns Hopkins University