The measurement of windspeed gradient with low PRF radar

In determining a wind shear condition with pulse Doppler radar, it may not be necessary to estimate the absolute windspeeds in range cells but only the difference in average windspeeds between range cells, i.e. windspeed gradient. Generally the magnitude of the windspeed gradient will be substantially less than the absolute mean windspeed, even for high turbulence environments, thus making it possible to utilize low-PRF radar with its inherently good ranging capability. Simulated data representing weather radar returns are analyzed to demonstrate some of the potential and problems associated with estimating Doppler difference frequency using a reduced pulse repetition frequency (PRF).<>