Remote Sensing of Clouds and Fog with a 1.4-mm Radar

Abstract

A recently developed 1.4 mm wavelengh incoherent radar has potential for remote sensing of low reflectivity atmospheric targets for ranges up to several kilometers. Power output of 60 W is achieved using an Extended Interaction Oscillator (EIO). Preliminary reflectivity measurements of clouds and fog for ranges between 36 and 1900 meters are believed to be the first such measurements at this wavelength Limitations on the accuracy of the reflectivity measurements are discussed, highlighting uncertainties due to highly variable attenuation.