Worldwide Oceanic Wind and Wave Predictions Using a Satellite Radar-Radiometer

Abstract

Data from a combined radar-radiometer in a satellite should permit improved prediction of surface atmospheric pressure, winds, and ocean wave spectra on a global basis, with consequent advantages to shipping. Radar returns from the sea at 2.25-cm wavelength have been measured and shown to be proportioned to windspeed. Use of a microwave radiometer should permit removing false radar data caused by atmospheric attenuation since the radiometric temperature is highly sensitive to such attenuation.