Multifrequency observations of Polar Mesosphere Summer Echoes using Alaskan radar facilities: Comparisons and scattering calculations (original) (raw)

Radio Science, 2009

Abstract

We present polar mesospheric radar observations at three frequency bands (MF/HF/VHF) and eight radar frequencies: 2.43, 3.3, 4.53, 4.9, 7.6, 28, 50, and 139 MHz, in order to better understand the well known but still not fully understood Polar Mesosphere Summer Echoes (PMSE). The echo morphology at the different frequencies is described by means of case studies where PMSE events were observed concurrently using at least two radar systems deployed over the Alaskan central region. The identity of MF and HF radar echoes as PMSE is resolved for the first time by means of simultaneous measurements made with VHF radars, the reference sensors employed traditionally for PMSE studies. On the basis of echo duration and radar reflectivity estimates, we suggest that low‐power HF radars would be more appropriate for PMSE monitoring. This is confirmed by a radar target analysis of turbulent scattering mechanisms in the polar summer mesosphere. MF radars show highly organized PMSE layers quite oft...

Frank Djuth hasn't uploaded this paper.

Let Frank know you want this paper to be uploaded.

Ask for this paper to be uploaded.