- Radar systems use radio waves in the microwave frequency range for their operation. These radio waves are electromagnetic waves that propagate through the atmosphere and reflect off objects in their path. The frequency of radio waves used in radar typically varies from several hundred MHz (Megahertz) to several GHz (Gigahertz), depending on the specific application and desired performance characteristics.
Radar systems emit these radio waves using specialized antennas and then subsequently detect reflected echoes from targets to determine their presence, distance, speed and other relevant parameters. The use of radio waves in radar enables critical detection and tracking capabilities for applications ranging from military surveillance to weather monitoring and air traffic control.
The ray used in radar systems is generally called the radar beam or radar pulse. This refers to the electromagnetic wave emitted by the radar transmitter as a short pulse of radio frequency energy.
The radar beam travels through the air in a straight line until it encounters objects in its path, at which point it is reflected back to the radar antenna as an echo. The characteristics of the radar beam, such as its frequency, wavelength and pulse duration, are carefully controlled to optimize radar performance for specific applications.
By analyzing the timing and characteristics of these reflected radar pulses, radar systems can determine the distance, direction and speed of detected targets, making radar a versatile and essential technology for various fields including defense, navigation and security. remote sensing.