Synthesis of mesoscale numerical weather prediction and empirical site-specific radar clutter models

Abstract

A littoral clutter modelling approach that derives three-dimensional refractivity profiles from mesoscale numerical weather prediction (MSNWP), applies them to parabolic equation (PE) propagation models, and combines them with empirical surface clutter reflectivity models to generate a more realistic model of surface clutter, is described. The MSNWP model is COAMPS®, coupled atmospheric mesoscale numerical prediction system. This study updates a paper for the IEEE Radar Conference in 2008: overwater discrete clutter, oil rigs, have been added to the model; new model comparisons with recorded data have been executed; and an evaporative duct model was appended below the refractivity profiles Burk et al. developed the approach presented here (i.e. COAMPS® provides atmospheric data for propagation models, which in turn provide data for clutter models). The current work advances this technology into the littorals. It has been tested over many cases of atmospheric conditions in several geographic areas. This synthesis of MSNWP and radar clutter models can provide clutter and propagation forecasts for military planners, retroactive prediction of propagation for clutter test data analysis and realistic models for radar system design and performance analysis.