Radar Signal Processing and Doppler Spectra

 

Course Description

This course explores the mathematical and computational principles by which received weather radar signals are converted into the classical radar variables: reflectivity (Z), Doppler velocity (VR), and spectrum width (SW or σv). Learners will gain an understanding of the baseband signals, Fourier Transform, Doppler spectra, and discrete sampling.

 

A graphic showing an example of an animated equation derivations that are colored by term to help learners track constants and different variables consistently.

This course features animated equation derivations that are colored by term to help learners track constants and different variables consistently. Here we’ve gathered constant terms in the leftmost term (red), terms related to the radar in the middle (blue), and terms related to the scatterers on the right (purple).

Intended Audience

The Radar Signal Processing and Doppler Spectra course is intended for undergraduate and graduate students in meteorology and the atmospheric sciences, though any Earth System Science professionals or weather enthusiasts interested in radar meteorology and remote sensing may find the content useful. 

 

Course Access

You can access the course here (MetEd login required).

 

Questions or Comments? 

We welcome any comments or questions you may have regarding the content, instructional approach, or use of this lesson. Please e-mail your comments or questions to Adam Hirsch (ahirsch@ucar.edu). For technical support, please visit our Registration and Support FAQs: https://www.meted.ucar.edu/help