TDWR stands for Terminal Doppler Weather Radar, which is a specialized radar system used primarily at major airports to detect dangerous wind shear and microbursts. These weather phenomena can pose significant risks to aircraft during takeoff and landing by causing sudden changes in wind speed and direction near the ground. TDWR radar systems are designed to provide real-time, high-resolution weather data to air traffic controllers and pilots, enabling them to make informed decisions to improve flight safety.
The frequency of TDWR radar is generally in the C band of the electromagnetic spectrum. C-band frequencies range from approximately 4 to 8 GHz (4000 to 8000 MHz). This frequency range is well suited for weather radar applications, providing adequate penetration through rain and other atmospheric conditions to detect wind shear, microbursts, precipitation intensity and other weather-related hazards weather affecting airport operations.
The wavelength of the TDWR radar corresponds inversely to its frequency, following the relationship λ = c/f, where λ is the wavelength, C is the speed of light (approximately 3 x 10^8 meters per second) and F is the frequency. For TDWR radar operating in the C-band frequency range (4 to 8 GHz), the wavelength varies approximately from 3.75 to 7.5 centimeters (or 37.5 to 75 millimeters). This wavelength range allows the TDWR radar to detect small-scale weather phenomena with high spatial resolution, providing detailed information crucial for airport security and operational efficiency.