Phased array weather / multipurpose radar

Abstract

The first phased array radar dedicated to weather observation and analysis is now instrumented with eight, simultaneous digital receivers. The addition of these additional channels will enable the use of advanced signal processing to improve signal/clutter in an adaptive mode. Elimination of strong point and ground clutter returns from the low-level, volumetrically distributed weather cell returns is a new application of adaptive processing. The NSF funded 8-channel receiver has been added to the National Weather Radar Testbed (NWRT) system in Norman, OK to enable operation as a multifunction and/or adaptive processing system. This paper will describe the system concept, system installation and early results from fielded weather data returns.

An optimal design of a cylindrical polarimetric phased array radar for weather sensing

“…Compared to conventional reflector antennas with mechanically steered beams, the NWRT takes advantage of electronic beam steering, resulting in shorter surveillance times and faster data updates. In addition, the NWRT has the capability to steer the beam mechanically in the azimuth direction, allowing for multiple measurements of the same meteorological volume [ Yu et al , 2007; Heinselman et al , 2008; Zhang et al , 2011a; Le et al , 2009; Zhang and Doviak , 2007, 2008; Yeary et al , 2010].…”