A Random Doppler Measurement Technique for the Global Atmospheric Research Program

Abstract

A proposed satellite-based environmental measurement system could contribute some Of the important basic variables to the Global Atmospheric Research Program (GARP) initial data set at low cost and within acceptable limits of accuracy. Randomly-timed signals from constant-level balloons, free-drifting buoys, and remote land stations would transmit in situ data to the satellite via low power modulated oscillators; doppler shifts in the signal frequency would allow computation of the platform positions. No satellite interrogation of the environmental platforms would be necessary. The capabilities, function, and comparative advantages of the proposed system are enumerated.