Polarization Diversity in Radar Meteorology: Early Developments
Abstract
The investigation of polarization effects has been part of radar meteorology and radio communications since the beginnings of these technologies. Meteorological research involving polarimetric radars was conducted in the United States, the Soviet Union, Canada, and England throughout the 1950's and 1960's. Some of these efforts focussed on the use of polarization techniques to identify the thermodynamic phase and other attributes of hydrometeors, e.g., for the identification of hail in severe storms. Others emphasized the use of polarization-related techniques to suppress radar echoes from clouds, e.g., for air traffic surveillance. As a result of improved radar equipment and increased understanding of the pertinent meteorological phenomena, a solid foundation was established for modern research in this specialty. Ongoing research with polarimetric radars may yield benefits to hydrology, cloud physics, climatology, weather modification, communications, agriculture, and weather nowcasting. Keywords: Reprints.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA226805
Entities
People
- James I. Metcalf
- Robert G. Humphries
- Thomas A. Seliga
Organizations
- Air Force Systems Command