Hybrid Ray Optics and Parabolic Equation Methods for Radar Propagation Modeling
Abstract
The use of parabolic equation (PE) methods has become very popular in recent years for modeling radar propagation effects in the lower atmosphere, especially for in which the vertical refractive index profile changes along the propagation path. The PE method normally used is the split-step method described by Tappert, which has been implemented by Dockery, Craig and Levy, and others. An advantage of the PE method is its ability to compute propagation effects within the horizon as well as beyond the horizon, thereby allowing computations to be made in all regions of practical interest to radar engineers or operators with just one model. However, a significant disadvantage of the split-step PE method is that it requires extensive computation. Computational requirements increase with higher frequencies, larger antenna beamwidths, and higher altitudes for which results are desired. For many practical combinations of these parameters, the use of PE models on personal computers is impractical without extra hardware such as transputers.... Propagation assessment, Environmental data, Command and control, Tactical decision aids.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA262855
Entities
People
- Herbert V. Hitney
Organizations
- Naval Command, Control and Ocean Surveillance Center