Cloud Detection Capability of Operational AN/TPQ-11 Radar Sets During 1966-1967 PDF Download

Author: Arthur J. Kantor
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Clouds
Languages : en
Pages : 24

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Book Description
Standard visual observations of cloud height have been compared with cloud data taken from the AN/TPQ-11 cloud detector, a vertically-pointing, fixed-beam radar set with a wavelength of 0.86 cm. Approximately six months of observations (1966 and 1967) were used at each of four USAF field stations (Yokota AB, Eglin AFB, Myrtle Beach AFB, and Scott AFB) between latitudes 30 degrees and 40 degrees N. Ability of these operational radars to detect clouds averaged 62 percent, which is considerably lower than the 85 percent value determined during development of the AN/TPQ-11 equipment. Consequently, current AN/TPQ-11 records appear to be severely limited as a means of reducing the bias now present in middle and high-cloud climatologies. It has been recommended that procedures be initiated to insure that operational AN/TPQ-11 cloud radars perform up to the capability indicated in earlier tests. Addendum A at the end of this report describes efforts to establish such procedures. (Author).