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Source: This post on X-Band Radar and its application has been created based on the article “What is Wayanad’s new X-band radar?” published in The Hindu on 14th October 2024.
Why in the news?
In July 2024, devastating floods and landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad district claimed more than 200 lives. In response, the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences approved the installation of an X-band radar in the district.
About Radar Technology
1. Radar, short for “radio detection and ranging,” is a device that uses radio waves to measure the distance, speed, and other characteristics of objects.
2. It emits a signal toward a target, such as a cloud, and analyses the reflected signals to gather data.
About X-Band Radar
| Aspects | Description |
| About | X-band radar is a radar that operates within a specific range of frequencies in the electromagnetic spectrum, typically from 8.0 to 12.0 GHz. |
| Key Characteristics of X-band Radar
| 1. The X-band operates in the microwave segment of the spectrum, with wavelengths between 2.5 to 3.75 cm. 2. Its short wavelength allows for precise imaging and higher resolution, which is ideal for detecting small targets and providing detailed information. |
| Applications | 1. Weather Radar: X-band radars are commonly used in meteorology for short-range weather observations. They can detect rainfall intensity, storm patterns, and precipitation types, which is crucial for forecasting and severe weather warnings. 2. Maritime Navigation: The high resolution makes it ideal for identifying small objects at sea, such as buoys, ships, and obstacles, which enhances navigation safety. 3. Military and Surveillance: Due to their ability to detect small and fast-moving targets, X-band radars are employed in missile guidance systems, air defense, and border surveillance. 4. Air Traffic Control: These radars help manage aircraft movements, especially at airports, by detecting and tracking planes accurately. |
| Advantages | 1. High Resolution: X-band radar’s shorter wavelength enables it to capture finer details, making it suitable for applications that require high-precision data. 2. Portability: X-band radar systems are often smaller and lighter than other radar types, making them more portable and easier to deploy. 3. Weather Penetration: While X-band radars may be susceptible to attenuation in heavy precipitation, they can still effectively detect and analyze moderate weather conditions, providing crucial data for short-range forecasting. |
About Doppler Radar and Its Applications
1. In meteorology, Doppler radar is commonly used to observe weather patterns, as it can measure how fast an object is moving and in which direction, based on frequency shifts due to the Doppler effect.
2. Doppler radar operates by emitting radio waves in pulses, tracking how often they return after reflecting off objects.
UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology
