Mobile S-band and Bistatic Networks for Severe Storms

A next-generation long wavelength adaptable/targetable research radar network, comprising an array of truck-borne quickly-deployable scanning 10-cm radars, S-band On Wheels (SOW), incorporating a Bistatic Adaptable Radar Network (BARN), can provide fine-scale S-band dual-polarization observations of the atmospheric boundary layer, convective, and other precipitating systems while simultaneously measuring dynamically meaningful fine-scale vector wind fields. 

 

SOW is a new paradigm for long-wavelength research radars, replacing large cumbersome expensive singular radars with a network of several smaller, nimbler, less expensive systems. 

 

SOW and BARN  will fill critical gaps in current observing systems, providing broadly and inexpensively available long wavelength, dual-polarimetric, near-ground, fine-scale, vector wind observations.   

 

• When implemented, a network of 4 SOWs, SOWNET, will replace single 10-cm large 10-cm 1° radars with an array of smaller, 5.5 m (18’) antenna, quickly-deployable, 1.5° beamwidth truck-borne radars. 
• With multiple SOWs, typical ranges to targets are much shorter, resulting in improved resolution compared to single 1° 10-cm radars. 

• 1,2,3, or 4 SOWs can comprise a SOWNET deployment, customizing for small or large missions.   Inexpensive deployments of 1-2 SOWs qualitatively broaden access to this critical observational capability

• BARN enables multiple-Doppler vector wind measurements over targeted regions.
• SOWNET provides  moderate-resolution multiple-Doppler measurements, BARN provides  finer-scale over smaller domains. 
• BARN units are coupled with single or multiple SOWS, COW, or DOWs.  
• Stationary BARN units are unattended, low power, and similar to deployable weather stations
• Highly redundant BARN units provide extreme reliability of multiple-Doppler operation.