Performance of the developed 95GHz FM-CW cloud profiling radar

摘要

[ABSTRACT] 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 Im-diameter paradolic 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 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.