Abstract
The antenna beam pattern for low elevation angles is examined in relation to the radar horizon to assess the impact of base-scan elevation angle on sensitivity to near-horizon weather features, as well as its effect on reflectivity measurements and ground clutter. The results from a simple model neglecting details of surface characteristics and multipath propagation suggest that a base elevation angle of about 0.3 beamwidth above the horizon would yield near-optimum sensitivity with acceptable degradation in reflectivity observations and ground clutter.
Corresponding author address: Prof. Paul L. Smith, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E. St. Joseph St., Rapid City, SD 57701-3995.
Email: psmith@ias.sdsmt.edu
