Radiosonde.
Abstract
The altitude measurement of a vehicle according to the present invention requires an accurate location of the vehicle geographically. This is found from standard navigational equipment used for ships, such as the Omega system or the Loran system. Once the geographic location of the vehicle is identified, a timing signal is transmitted to it from a reference station. The geographical location and altitude of this station is known. The timing signal travels to the vehicle where it is detected and a return signal is transmitted to the reference station. Timing the difference between transmission and reception of the return signal provides information to calculate the distance between the two since the total time and the velocity of propagation are both known. The remote vehicle also transmits its geographic location to the reference station. Application of the Pythagorean theorem permits direct calculation of the difference in altitude of the vehicle from that of the reference station. It is an object of the present invention to define a method of measuring altitude of airborne vehicles independent of atmospheric parameters.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 07, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADD008469
Entities
People
- David A. Rosenthal
Organizations
- United States Department of the Navy