Waveform Design for First Generation CASA Testbed

The first testbed of X-band radar systems deployed by the Center for Collaborative Adaptive Sensing of the Atmosphere (CASA), in central Oklahoma called IP-1 (Integrated Project 1) will have a low unambiguous velocity due to their short wavelength, and increasing the PRF will result in multiple trip overlays since storms can extend over a large distance. The range-velocity ambiguity is more severe for X-band radars compared to the conventional S-band. However, low cost radars limit the ability to support complex waveforms due to hardware requirements. In addition the radar observations at short ranges are contaminated by ground clutter. This paper describes the waveforms for the individual radar nodes based on operational requirements such as scan speeds, volume coverage pattern and system/hardware limitations to resolve range and velocity ambiguities along with clutter suppression.