Solid-state 94 GHz doppler radar for meteorology

Cloud radars based on solid-state component technology provide an efficient system architecture with attributes of relatively small size, low mass and low power consumption. These benefits are important and allow a wider application of cloud radar systems for meteorological sounding, easier deployment at remote locations, and reduced manufacturing costs. More than a decade ago the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory began development of a frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) cloud radar profiler based on solid-state components. Several systems have been produced and applied for atmospheric observations and research. Recent technical development and increased requirements of the scientific community have encouraged the development of an upgraded radar incorporating a Doppler sounding capability. This paper describes the proposed methodology of this technical enhancement. After the description of the principle of FMCW Doppler radar, the current design is explained and the upgraded design is introduced. The latter aims to provide. Introduction of Doppler capability; Simplification of design where appropriate; Maximum utilisation of in-house capabilities. For achieving the last bullet point, a number of components or sub-systems have been included into the design. These are described in further detail. Results achieved from the development activities to date are reported, which include a direct digital synthesiser (DDS) proposed to be utilised in the design and components or subsystems based on in-house capabilities. The final section of this publication provides the conclusion and outlook.