Doppler radars measure the relative velocity in the air. These signals bounce off objects in the atmosphere and are reflected back to the tower. Doppler effects are essential for determining the speed of storms and their direction. It is also used in determining the fall zones for meteorites.
In the past radars were used for weather detection. The development of computer technology enabled algorithms to detect severe weather. Weather radars today are used to determine the amount and speed of the wind gusts and precipitation. Forecasters use the collected data to produce accurate and reliable forecasts that broadcasters and news organizations can use. Weather radars are also used to study the behavior of the atmosphere and other atmospheric conditions. Researchers can use algorithms to create better models for predicting extreme weather.
Doppler weather radars are designed to be used at low altitudes. The signals are transmitted in a circular pattern. They bounce back at targets in the atmosphere and get a weak signal. In order to calculate the rate of precipitation, the intensities of the echos are analysed upon return. There are many Doppler weather radars.
For general operational purposes, Doppler weather radars can be used. They are typically less costly than conventional radars, and they are also simpler. Because magnetrons provide stability for transmitters, they are common in these devices. These are good options for basic systems, due to their lower cost.
Doppler weather radars provide valuable information for analyzing and detecting tornadoes. In addition, the data they provide can be integrated with other information to create a more complete picture of weather patterns. New technology can be used to improve future forecast accuracy.
A wide variety of research has been conducted to develop advanced radars and techniques. Researchers have been focused on high-resolution data. RangerA(c), a X-band (3 cm), adaptive polarization Doppler weather surveillance radar is an example. This system was built in conjunction with the University of Oklahoma Advanced Radar Research Center and uses low power solid-state transmitters.
Recent developments have focused on improving the temporal sampling rate of radar data. This is especially important for National Met Services which tend to be more interested long range measurements.
High resolution Xband radar is ideal to monitor rainfall in small urban catchments. Recent research has shown this type of radar can accurately detect thunderstorms and tornadoes. This type of radar can be used to observe smaller phenomena, thanks to the availability of ground-based mobile radars.
Researchers have also examined the kinematic structure and boundaries of air masses. This has allowed for the development methods to calculate attenuation. The ZPHI method, which can be used to compensate attenuation, has been developed.