Ionospheric incoherent scatter measurements with the middle and upper atmosphere radar: Techniques and capability

The capability of the middle and upper atmosphere (MU) radar of Japan for incoherent scatter (IS) measurements of the ionospheric plasma is reported. The MU radar is a 46.5 MHz pulse-modulated monostatic Doppler radar with an active phased array antenna which consists of 475 crossed yagis. The observational technique employed for MU radar IS measurements is described. The expected accuracy of the plasma parameter measurements is examined. Sample results exhibit the designed capability of the MU radar as an IS radar, and expectations indicated by numerical simulations are confirmed. 15 references.