Optimized scan strategy for phased array weather radar

We present an optimized scan strategy for weather surveillance that is specifically designed to meet the Multi-function Phased Array Radar (MPAR) requirements in extended range and altitude coverage. The volume coverage pattern (VCP) is divided into multiple sectors in elevation to maximize volume update rate. The Pulse Repetition Time (PRT) is optimized for the required range. Parsing of the volume on sectors with similar PRTs, allow for block-modular data processing. Each sector is broken down into subsectors in azimuth to provide flexibility in interleaving and multiplexing. The sector encompassing the lowest elevations is observed using waveforms designed for range-velocity ambiguity mitigation with enhanced clutter filtering. Superiority of the new scan is in providing rapid update rate for the lower sector (30 seconds) while performing the surveillance for the remaining VCP in 1 min. Figure 1 examplifies the unambiguous range coverage of the proposed scan.