How Does phased array surveillance radar manufacturer Work?

Research Tools: Phased Array Radar

The Phased Array Radar (PAR) project was created to illustrate the ability to conduct aircraft tracking, wind profiling, and weather monitoring simultaneously using a single phased array weather radar. The National Weather Radar Testbed (NWRT) by NOAA employs a repurposed U.S. Navy SPY-1A phased array radar, which was constructed in the 1990s and has been tested and assessed in Norman, Oklahoma.

Electronic Steering

Traditional weather radars rotate and tilt mechanically to scan different atmospheric sections. In contrast, phased array radars utilize a stationary flat panel antenna composed of a grid of fixed antenna elements, each capable of sending and receiving signals. This distinctive arrangement enables the electronic steering of the radar beam, allowing users to determine how, when, and where the radar conducts its scans. This capability allows the radar to focus its beam on storm locations, leading to quicker updates by not scanning clear-air regions unnecessarily.

Rapid Scanning

PAR can survey the sky in less than a minute, revealing critical indicators that signal the potential for severe weather. Scanning every minute enhances the accuracy of severe weather confirmations, improving warning reliability and minimizing false alarms. Furthermore, it enables forecasters to monitor storm changes and identify when they are intensifying or weakening. NSSL scientists have gleaned new insights into thunderstorms through data obtained from PAR.

An independent analysis suggests that establishing a combined PAR network to satisfy both FAA and NWS objectives could save taxpayers $4.8 billion over the radar's operational life.

PAR Research

Researchers at NSSL are focused on:

• Enhancing signal processing strategies to improve the accuracy, quality, and coverage of meteorological products from weather radars,
• Implementing adaptive scanning and rapid update features for weather observations to increase lead times for severe weather alerts,
• Demonstrating dynamic scheduling for multi-functional scanning approaches,
• Developing a radar controller interface,
• Creating severe weather detection algorithms and displays to utilize unique data generated by the PAR,
• Evaluating rapid-scanning NWRT PAR data to enhance understanding of severe weather development and increase tornado warning lead times.
• Establishing specifications for dual-polarized PAR and assessing various design challenges,
• Testing and evaluating dual-polarization PAR prototypes,

Benefits of PAR

History of Phased Array Radar

The AEGIS phased array radar (known as SPY-1) was initially utilized by Navy vessels to shield naval task forces from missile threats. Researchers believe that this technology can significantly extend the lead time for tornado warnings.

In a pivotal agreement, the U.S. Navy loaned a phased array antenna to NSSL, along with funding of $10 million to establish the National Weather Radar Testbed (NWRT). This facility is dedicated to enhancing the quality, speed, and precision of severe weather forecasting, analysis, and warning techniques by employing both phased array and upgraded WSR-88D radar technologies. The National Weather Service contributed the transmitter, with additional funding from NOAA, Oklahoma University, Lockheed Martin, and Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education supporting the purchase of an environmental processor. Initial financial support for research and program management came from the FAA, with equipment donations from the NWS. The NWRT became operational in September 2011, with initial data collection commencing in May 2010.

Collaborators and Partners

The National Weather Radar Testbed represents a unique collaboration among academia, industry, government agencies, and military partners, all focused on leveraging military technology to create a civilian research facility that significantly benefits national interests.