Accession Number:

ADA995212

Title:

Operation UPSHOT-KNOTHOLE: Effectiveness of Fast Scan Radar for Fireball Studies and Weapons Tracking

Descriptive Note:

[Technical Report, Technical Report]

Corporate Author:

NAVAL ELECTRONICS LAB CENTER SAN DIEGO CA

Personal Author(s):

Report Date:

1955-06-01

Pagination or Media Count:

25

Abstract:

The U.S. Navy Electronics Laboratory Fast Scan Radar was used in Operations UPSHOT-KNOTHOLE to establish the degree of usefulness of the high information rate provided 20 scans per second in determining relevant burst phenomena. Fast scan data on Shots 7, 8, and 9 were recorded on film by the radar test personnel for familiarization, training, and for the purpose of choosing the optimum radar site for Shot 10. The burst phenomenon of the 20-mm shell was readily discernible on the radar indicators but, due to the large amounts of ground clutter in the vicinity of the projectile track and the somewhat excessive range to the projectile, the shell was not seen in flight. The fast scan radar provides a practical means by which high-speed radar information incident to the bomb-burst can be observed and recorded for later analysis in determining bomb yield. It is recommended that if rapid scan radar is needed in yield determination, a fast scan radar tailored specifically for the detection of the burst phenomenon be constructed and tested with future nuclear devices.

Descriptors:

Subject Categories:

• Active and Passive Radar Detection and Equipment

Distribution Statement:

[A, Approved For Public Release]