Mobile S-band and Bistatic Networks for Severe Storms and other Studies

Mobile S-band and Bistatic Networks for Severe Storms and other Studies poster

A next-generation long wavelength adaptable/targetable research radar network, comprising an array of truck-borne quickly-deployable scanning 10-cm radars, S-band On Wheels (SOW), incorporating a Bistatic Adaptable Radar Network (BARN), can provide fine-scale S-band dual-polarization observations of the atmospheric boundary layer, convective, and other precipitating systems while simultaneously measuring dynamically meaningful fine-scale vector wind fields.

SOW is a new paradigm for long-wavelength research radars, replacing large cumbersome expensive singular radars with a network of several smaller, nimbler, less expensive systems.

SOW and BARN will fill critical gaps in current observing systems, providing broadly and inexpensively available long wavelength, dual-polarimetric, near-ground, fine-scale, vector wind observations.

When implemented, a network of 4 SOWs, SOWNET, will replace single 10-cm large 10-cm 1° radars with an array of smaller, 5.5 m (18’) antenna, quickly-deployable, 1.5° beamwidth truck-borne radars.
With multiple SOWs, typical ranges to targets are much shorter, resulting in improved resolution compared to single 1° 10-cm radars.
1,2,3, or 4 SOWs can comprise a SOWNET deployment, customizing for small or large missions. Inexpensive deployments of 1-2 SOWs qualitatively broaden access to this critical observational capability
BARN enables multiple-Doppler vector wind measurements over targeted regions.
SOWNET provides moderate-resolution multiple-Doppler measurements, BARN provides finer-scale over smaller domains.
BARN units are coupled with single or multiple SOWS, COW, or DOWs.
Stationary BARN units are unattended, low power, and similar to deployable weather stations
Highly redundant BARN units provide extreme reliability of multiple-Doppler operation.