On the possible effect of signal processing in meteor-head radar reflections from Jicamarca

We report the analysis of a peculiar signature present in Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) plots from meteor-head radar returns. These radar reflections were collected with the High-Power Large-Aperture (HPLA) radar at Jicamarca in Lima, Peru. The signature appears to be systematic, being caused by the combined effect of meteor-head echoes properties and signal processing in the radar receiver. We describe a first order model to support this hypothesis. Our studies reveal that at least 15% of the meteor population exhibit this signature. Therefore, the understanding of this feature is critical to differentiate them from actual physical processes present in meteor returns. Failing to do so could lead to misinterpretation of meteor data.