Radarreflektion

Radarreflektion refers to the phenomenon where electromagnetic waves emitted by a radar system are returned to the radar receiver after striking an object. This returned signal, known as the echo, contains information about the object's size, shape, material, and velocity. The strength and characteristics of the radar reflection are determined by several factors, including the radar's frequency, the object's size relative to the wavelength, its surface roughness, and its material composition.

Objects that reflect radar waves are often referred to as radar targets. The effectiveness of an object in reflecting radar waves is quantified by its radar cross-section (RCS). A larger RCS generally means a stronger reflection and a greater likelihood of detection. The design of stealth aircraft, for instance, aims to minimize their RCS by using specific shapes and radar-absorbent materials to reduce the amount of energy reflected back to the radar.

Different types of radar reflection exist. Specular reflection occurs when a smooth surface acts like a mirror, reflecting the radar waves in a specific direction. Diffuse reflection happens when a rough surface scatters the radar waves in multiple directions. The analysis of the reflected signal, including its amplitude, phase, and Doppler shift (which indicates relative motion), allows radar systems to detect, track, and identify targets. Understanding radarreflektion is crucial for applications ranging from air traffic control and weather forecasting to military surveillance and navigation.