The long wavelength radar for Mars surface and ionosphere probing

This article describes the main solutions during the design and manufacture of the long wavelength radar (LWR) RLK-M for a planet exploration from the orbiter. The results of ground testing are discussed. The RLK-M is destined for remote sounding of Mars surface, subsurface, cryolithosphere structure and the Martian ionosphere. The main parameters of RLK-M are presented. The structure of the RLK-M is illustrated and the main components of the radar (transmitter, receiver) are shown. The system´s operation with a relatively short antenna in comparison with the wavelength at the low frequencies of the LWR range, the use of complex radio signals, and on-board radar control and data processing are also discussed