Citation
Abstract
Eight dual-channel microwave radiometers have been constructed as a research and development effort for the Crustal Dynamics Project and the Deep Space Network. These instruments, known as water vapor radiometers, are primarily intended to demonstrate that the variable path delay imposed by atmospheric water vapor can be calibrated in microwave tracking and distance measuring systems but could also be used in other applications involving moist air meteorology and propagation studies. They are being deployed to various stations and observatories that participate in Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) experiments including the Deep Space Stations in Spain and Australia. In this paper we review the development history of these instruments, outline the theory of operation and overall design considerations, and sketch the instrumental parameters and performance characteristics.
Details
- Volume
- 42-72
- Published
- February 15, 1983
- Pages
- 1–19
- File Size
- 1.6 MB