Cloud profiling radar for EarthCARE mission

Abstract

Concept and expected performance of cloud profiling radar (CPR) for EarthCARE are described based on preliminary design study conducted to date. High sensitivity and Doppler capability are two significant new features in this CPR. Particularly, Doppler capability is the first attempt to spaceborne atmospheric radar, which requires great efforts in technical development and feasibility validation. We have developed a new numerical simulation method to assess Doppler velocity accuracy applicable to this application, and results are compared with conventional approximation method. Validity and limitation of the approximation method are indicated from comparison with numerical method. It is shown that requirements to radar sensitivity and Doppler measurements will be satisfied. However, because these requirements to CPR are very tough, further detailed study on both design optimization and assessment technique development are necessary. Under radar operation with very high pulse repetition frequency (PRF) required in this CPR, surface clutter interference caused through antenna sidelobes is an important issue. Analysis on this issue and preliminary requirements to the antenna sidelobes are also discussed.