Weather radar range expands to include X-band Radars

Vaisala have announced the development of an advanced X-band Weather Radar. The smaller size and lower cost of an X-band radar will make it an ideal instrument to enhance the weather detection capabilities of a specific location. In difficult terrain, it fills the gaps to reliably detect snow, rain, and other weather activity. Adding X-band radars to an existing network will also improve the accuracy of precipitation measurement, providing better data for flood warnings or hydro-electric power plants, for example. In airport environments, the radar allows for detection of wind shear, wake vortices, convective weather, and even migrating birds.

The new X-band Weather Radar provides highly accurate measurements for a limited area, filling in a gap in a national radar network or delivering precise information for an airport. Severe weather in mountainous areas and gaps under sparse weather radar networks will now be visible when X-band radars are added to the weather radar networks. Airport safety and efficiency will be improved with accurate detection and nowcasting of hazardous conditions.

“X-band radar will enhance a weather detection arsenal, making it even more reliable and accurate,” said Pekka Utela, Director, Weather Radars, Vaisala. “By developing a smaller system allowing simple site selection, as well as providing maximum weather detection sensitivity with automatic and continuous calibration, the new X-band radar will answer the challenges decision-makers face in severe weather situations.”

The intelligence the X-band radar collects will provide significantly improved situational awareness. When integrated with other measurement systems, such as Vaisala C-band Weather Radar or wind lidar, users will get the most comprehensive, real-time data available. At airports, accurate wind shear detection, complemented by lidars, helps optimize take-off and landing sequences, as well as enhancing the safety of flight operations.

“The intelligence provided by the unique sensitivity of the new radar will complement systems run by weather services, airports, and even maritime organizations who are monitoring conditions to protect life and property,” said Utela.