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EPSRC Reference: GR/M48079/01
Title: SELF-CALIBRATING MILLIMETRE-WAVE RADIOMETER WITH IN- BUILT WATER VAPOUR BACKGROUND DETERMINATION USING GPS
Principal Investigator: Watson, Professor P
Other Investigators:
Watson, Dr RJ
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
Department: Electronic and Electrical Engineering
Organisation: University of Bath
Scheme: Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts: 01 October 1999 Ends: 31 October 2002 Value (£): 253,119
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
RF & Microwave Technology
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
Environment No relevance to Underpinning Sectors
Related Grants:
Panel History:  
Summary on Grant Application Form
Millimetre-wave radiometers are used in studies of the Earth's atmosphere to climate modelling (especially for quantification of atmospheric water vapour and cloud liquid water) and also for satellite communications systems performance prediction. Over the next decade a significant number of spaceborne remote sensing systems (including radars and radiometers) will be launched in international efforts to monitor and model global climate. These systems will require accurate ground truth data, as can be provided by well calibrated radiometers. In communications applications, the frequency range 30 - 50GHz is now opening and, no doubt, the window above 65GHz will eventually be exploited. In the absence of satellite beacons radiometers must be used for evaluation and performance prediction.Absolute calibration of radiometers remains a significant problem: currently the tip curve method is most favoured, but does not perform well in the higher millimetre wavebands and furthermore requires an electrically controlled elevation drive which is costly and bulky. We propose to use a GPS receiver combined with a radiometer and specially developed software to provide a more accurate, reliable and lower cost instrument which automatically self-calibrates without operator intervention. The method is entirely generic though will be demonstrated in the context of a 93GHz system.
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Organisation Website: http://www.bath.ac.uk