Open AccessCassini Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR): Earth and Venus observations
Author(s) -
Lorenz R. D.,
Elachi C.,
West R. D.,
Johnson W. T. K.,
Janssen M. A.,
Moghaddam M.,
Hamilton G. A.,
Liepack O.,
Bunker A.,
Roth L. E.,
Wall S. D.,
Dente L.,
Casarano D.,
Posa F.
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
journal of geophysical research: space physics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.67
H-Index - 298
eISSN - 2156-2202
pISSN - 0148-0227
DOI - 10.1029/2001ja900035
Subject(s) - venus , ranging , remote sensing , radar , geology , atmosphere (unit) , earth (classical element) , astrobiology , microwave , atmosphere of venus , environmental science , meteorology , astronomy , physics , geodesy , aerospace engineering , quantum mechanics , engineering
The Cassini Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR) was operated in scatterometric and radiometric modes during the Venus 1 and Earth swingbys to verify its functionality. At Venus, only the thermal emission from the thick absorbing atmosphere was detected. At Earth both the radar echo and the microwave emission from the surface were detected and reveal ocean surface disturbances, the rough, high, and cold Andes mountains, and surface features including a small reservoir in Brazil. Instrument performance appears to be excellent.