A novel microwave radiometer for assessment of atmospheric propagation conditions for 10 and 90 GHz frequency bands

Abstract

In order to quantify atmospheric perturbations on satellite signals a new ground based ultra stable microwave radiometer is developed. In addition to several K- and V-band channels two further Ku- and W-band channels are implemented. This frequency combination provides sensitivity towards atmospheric water vapour and oxygen, as well as to rain and cloud droplets. To perform high stable measurements, the radiometer is equipped by a continuous calibration method using a Dicke switch and a noise diode. This yields to radiometer stability for integration times up to 2000 seconds.