Prospects for High Accuracy Time Dissemination & Synchronization Using Coded Radar Pulses From a Low-Earth Orbiting Spacecraft

E. Detoma, C. Dionisio

Abstract:	Introduction - No Abstract Available The radar (an acronym for radio detection and ranging) is an instrument developed just before the WW-II to precisely measure the position of an object (target) in space. This is done by emitting a narrow pulse of electromagnetic energy in the RF spectrum, receiving the return echo and measuring the time of flight in the two-way path from the emitter to the target. The propagation delay provides a measure of the range to the target, which is not in itself sufficient to uniquely locate the position of the same in space. However, if a directional antenna is used, the direction of the echo can be assessed by the antenna pointing angles . In this way the position of the target can be uniquely determined in space. How well this can be done is a function of the resolution of the measurements performed (range and direction, i.e.: angles); in turn, the resolution will dictate the time and frequency requirements of the reference oscillator.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 26th Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting December 6 - 8, 1994 Hyatt Regency Reston Town Center Reston, Virginia
Pages:	333 - 346
Cite this article:	Detoma, E., Dionisio, C., "Prospects for High Accuracy Time Dissemination & Synchronization Using Coded Radar Pulses From a Low-Earth Orbiting Spacecraft," Proceedings of the 26th Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting, Reston, Virginia, December 1994, pp. 333-346.
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