NOAA X-band radar measurements in 3CPO

The NOAA Wave Propagation Laboratory participated in the Cloud Chemistry Cloud Physics Organization (3CPO) field Project in east-central Illinois in the summer of 1988. The Laboratory planned to use its circular polarization diversity Doppler X-band radar to study venting of polluted boundary layer air by convective clouds using a new technique known as TRACIR. The technique and the experimental plan are described and a summary of the radar operations is given. Unfortunately, a severe drought prevented the necessary clouds from forming during the project. Numerous measurements were made with the radar in clear air conditions using vertical scans and the velocity azimuth display (VAD) method to obtain data on turbulence characteristics of the planetary boundary layer. The VAD measurements and analysis procedures are described as well as a test of the efficiency of the NOAA airborne chaff cutters. The complete radar tape log for the project is included.