Wave Field Characterization Using Dual-Polarized Pulse-Doppler X-Band Radar

Use of radar as a remote sensing technique for measurement of ocean surface waves presents many advantages over conventional point sensors, such as wave buoys or wave gauges. One such advantage is the ability to obtain phase-resolved wave field measurements over vast areas and at locations far from the sensor. As the use of radar for wave measurements becomes more widespread, it is important to understand the dependence and sensitivity of the extracted wave parameters on the characteristics of the radar and the scatterers. To examine such issues, experiments were performed offshore of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO) pier in July 2010. Radar measurements of the wave field were performed with dual-polarized high resolution X-band pulse-Doppler radar at low grazing angles along with two independent measurements of the surface waves using conventional sensors. These data were taken in low sea states so that effects associated with breaking waves were minimized. Contract no. MIPR-N0001412WX20711. Work unit no. 10-1-5800-328 and 1000005395050100