Radar effective range refers to the distance at which the radar system can reliably detect and track targets with sufficient accuracy and reliability. This range varies depending on factors such as radar operating frequency, transmit power, antenna design, receiver sensitivity, and environmental conditions. For short-range radars used in automotive applications, the effective range typically extends to a few hundred meters.
These radars are optimized to detect nearby objects and provide precise distance measurements essential for collision avoidance systems in vehicles.
Long-range radar systems, commonly used in aerospace, maritime and military applications, have much greater effective ranges. These radars can detect and track targets at distances ranging from tens to hundreds of kilometers. For example, air traffic control radars are capable of monitoring aircraft movements within a radius of up to 200 nautical miles (approximately 370 kilometers), facilitating the safe and efficient management of air traffic.
Maritime surveillance radars can detect ships and vessels at ranges exceeding 50 nautical miles (approximately 93 kilometers), supporting maritime navigation, security and rescue operations over large marine areas.
The effectiveness of long-range radar systems is influenced by their ability to transmit powerful signals, use high gain antennas for signal reception, and use advanced signal processing techniques to improve target detection in harsh environments.
Radar designers and operators optimize these systems to achieve maximum effective range performance while ensuring reliable target detection and tracking capabilities under varying weather conditions, terrain characteristics and operational scenarios
