Title :
Spaceborne rain radar mission and instrument analysis
Author :
Vincent, N. ; Chenebault, J. ; Suinot, N. ; Mancini, P.L.
Author_Institution :
Alcatel Espace, Toulouse, France
Abstract :
The main objective of this paper, based upon a Pre-phase A study founded by ESA, is to define a preliminary design of a spaceborne rain radar from a precise review of user requirements proposed for climate research and operational meteorology purpose. A mission analysis defines the most suitable space segment, taking into account the instrument related aspects and mission constraints. As a result of several trade-off, the dual frequency rain radar design is described presenting in particular the way pulse compression is implemented to achieve a pulse response with a side-lobe level lower than -60 dB. Finally simulated performances shows this feasible spaceborne rain radar is in compliance with the user requirements
Keywords :
atmospheric measuring apparatus; atmospheric techniques; meteorological radar; pulse compression; rain; remote sensing by radar; spaceborne radar; ESA; Pre-phase A study; SHF; atmosphere; dual frequency radar; instrument analysis; measurement technique; meteorological radar; meteorology; microwave radar; mission analysis; pulse compression; radar remote sensing; spaceborne radar; spaceborne rain radar mission; user requirements; Earth; Instruments; Meteorological radar; Meteorology; Microwave radiometry; Pulse compression methods; Rain; Sampling methods; Space missions; Spaceborne radar;
Conference_Titel :
Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium, 1996. IGARSS '96. 'Remote Sensing for a Sustainable Future.', International
Conference_Location :
Lincoln, NE
Print_ISBN :
0-7803-3068-4
DOI :
10.1109/IGARSS.1996.516316
