Real-time determination of meteor-related parameters utilizing modern digital technology

Abstract

Modern fast digitization techniques and computer methods have been combined with both new and old theoretical approaches to permit construction of a new class of meteor radar. This radar can simultaneously stream data into memory, detect occurrences of meteors, and determine the location of meteor trails (range and angle), as well as find their radial drift speeds and decay times. The meteor entrance speeds as the meteors enter the atmosphere can also be determined. These parameters may then be used to deduce meteor fluxes, as well as winds, temperatures and diffusion coefficients at altitudes of 80–100 km. This information can also be used to deduce source positions of meteor shower radiants. Some of these capabilities are very new, especially the ability to measure atmospheric temperatures at ∼90 km altitude.