A Dual-Doppler Ka-band Mobile Radar Architecture With Rapid-Scanning Volumetric Imaging for Earth Systems Science

This paper describes a new radar architecture for a dual-polarized Ka-band mobile rapid-scanning volumetric imaging radar (KaRVIR) system, the first ground-based millimeter-wavelength phased array radar (PAR) for Earth systems science. KaRVIR's concept enables unprecedented four-dimensional measurements including high-temporal resolution and full volumetric imaging at Ka-band. It will enable transformative studies of clouds, precipitation, and boundary layer processes, and unleash innovative applied environmental research to study fires plumes, and insect migration. In this paper, we discuss the design trade-offs of this cost-effective PAR architecture that will provide high-fidelity radar data at Ka-band, enabling impactful studies throughout the scientific community. It is designed to observe cloud and precipitation processes and other environmental phenomena requiring mm-wavelength observations at high spatial resolution and radar sensitivity.