Detection of Radio Signals Reflected from the Moon

This paper describes the experiments at Evans Signal Laboratory which resulted in the obtaining of radio reflections from the moon, and reviews the considerations involved in such transmissions. The character of the moon as a radar target is considered in some detail, followed by development of formulas and curves which show the attenuation between transmitting and receiving antennas in a moon radar system. An experimental radar equipment capable of producing reflections from the moon is briefly described, and results obtained with it are given. Some of the considerations with respect to communication circuits involving the moon are presented. The effects of reflection at the moon on pulse shape and pulse intensity for various transmitted pulse widths are dealt with quantitatively in the Appendix.