First observational results with the newly developed cloud profiling FM-CW radar at 95 GHz

摘要

We developed a cloud profiling radar transmitting frequency-modulated continuous wave (FM-CW) at 95 GHz for ground-based observations. Millimeter wave at 95 GHz is used to realize high sensitivity to small cloud particles. An FM-CW type radar would realize similar sensitivity with much smaller output power to a pulse type radar. Two 1m-diameter parabolic antennas separated by 1.4m each other are used for transmitting and receiving the wave. The direction of the antennas is fixed at the zenith. The radar is designed to observe clouds between 0.3 and 15 km in height with a resolution of 15 m. Using the facility, test observations and long term campaign observations have been done. Results of observations show that the system is sensitive and stable enough to observe various clouds.