The incoherent scatter radar (ISR) technique is a powerful method used in atmospheric and ionospheric research to study plasma properties in the Earth’s upper atmosphere. This radar technique works by transmitting radio waves to the ionosphere, where they interact with free electrons and ions. The scattered signals returned to the radar receiver carry information about the electron density, temperature and ionic composition of the ionospheric plasma.
Unlike coherent dispersion radar, which preserves phase relationships for detailed imaging, incoherent dispersion radar analyzes random moves caused by numerous scattering events. ISR provides valuable data for understanding ionospheric dynamics, space weather phenomena and their impacts on communication and navigation systems.
Incoherent scattering refers to the scattering of waves or particles where the phase relationships between the scattered waves are lost.
This phenomenon occurs when incident waves interact with the scattering centers in a way that randomizes their phase during scattering. Incoherent scattering can occur in various physical contexts, such as electromagnetic waves scattering from irregular surfaces, or photons scattering from atoms or molecules in gases or liquids. The resulting scattered waves exhibit random phase relationships, leading to diffuse scattering patterns without discernible interference effects.
Incoherent scattering is essential in fields such as radar, remote sensing, and medical imaging for its ability to provide information about material properties and environmental conditions based on the characteristics of scattered waves.
Pulsed plasma incoherent scatter radar (PFISR) operates at a frequency range typically between 430 MHz and 440 MHz. This frequency range is specifically chosen to optimize the radar’s ability to probe ionospheric plasma using incoherent scattering techniques.
PFISR is used to study the dynamics and characteristics of the ionosphere, including electron density profiles, plasma irregularities, and interactions with solar and geomagnetic phenomena. By transmitting pulses of radio waves and analyzing incoherently scattered signals returned from the ionosphere, PFISR helps advance our understanding of space weather, ionospheric variability, and their effects on radio communication and satellite navigation systems
