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The effect of polarization on radar detection of lightningThe polarization dependence of lightning echoes received with a 23-cm wavelength radar is estimated theoretically and experimentally. The reduction in the lightning radar cross-section due to the transmission of circular polarization instead of linear is measured to be about 4 dB and is much smaller than the 15-30 dB reduction in reflectivity of weak precipitation regions. The 8.7 dB average reduction in reflectivity maxima has been observed. This leads to an increase in the detected lightning flash rate by as much as 40%. The radar cross-section ratio of circular to linear polarization obtained experimentally suggests that lightning elements tend to be horizontally oriented.
Document ID
19830032323
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Mazur, V.
(Oklahoma Univ. Norman, OK, United States)
Walker, G. B.
(Oklahoma, University Norman, OK, United States)
Date Acquired
August 11, 2013
Publication Date
November 1, 1982
Publication Information
Publication: Geophysical Research Letters
Volume: 9
Subject Category
Meteorology And Climatology
Accession Number
83A13541
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NOAA-NA-80RAD00002
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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