Method of compensating for atmospheric effects while using near horizon radar

Abstract

A method of compensating for atmospheric effects to detect the actual location of low elevation objects using near horizon radar to detect an object which utilizes a preexisting satellite, wherein the location of the satellite is known. The method includes a step of providing a radar site, a first receiver structured to receive a signal from the satellite, and known location data for the satellite then positioning the first receiver near the radar site. The first receiver is utilized to receive a signal from the satellite when the satellite is at a low elevation. The bending angle can then be determined by comparing the apparent location data of the satellite as determined by the first receiver to the known location data of the satellite. This data may also be combined with weather data is used to determine a three dimensional refractivity model. Once the bending angle of the atmosphere is determined, the radar is used to detect the apparent location data of a low elevation object. The location of the low elevation object can then be determined by applying the bending angle to the apparent location data of the object.