| Abstract | The purpose of this project is to evaluate balloon-carried reflectors as targets for checking radar sensitivity. The targets are spherical balloon covers made of conducting nylon mesh. Covers 3 feet in diameter were used in the early tests, but present tests are made with covers 4 feet in diameter. Meteorological balloons are used inside the covers. Since the balloons and covers are commercially available items it was thought that the tests would be simple. A substantial number of balloons were to be released, the fade-out ranges averaged, and this figure used as the criterion for future radar sensitivity checks. However, the first trial showed that the balloons did not travel constant altitude, and hence, did not maintain sphericity. Equipment is being developed to assure constant level. Full details of the project are not given, but results of the latest field trials are included. |
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