In order to study the cloud and precipitation process, the multi-parameter radar system (MP radar system) was completed in 2000, following a technology survey and basic and detailed design processes which were conducted in 1996 - 1997. The MP radar system comprises a dual wavelength high sensitivity radar (MP-Ka/W radar) for cloud observation, and a 3 cm wavelength polarization radar (MP-X radar) for rainfall observation. Although the MP-X radar was originally mounted on a 4-ton truck to facilitate mobile observations, in 2003 it was fixed atop a 4-story building located in Ebina in Kanagawa prefecture so as to conduct continuous observations of rainfall. This has enabled the constant monitoring of the generation of heavy rainfall in the Tokyo metropolitan area. This brochure describes only the MP-X radar.

The multi-parameter radar system at NIED in 2000 (Tsukuba). Left: MP-Ka/W, right: MP-X.

The MP-X after relocation in 2003 (Ebina, Kanagawa prefecture).

Table 1 - NIED MP-X Radar Specifications Frequency   9.375 GHz Antenna type    2.1m diameter parabolic antenna   Scanning range (speed): AZ    360‹ (36 deg/s max.) EL    -2 ~ +92‹ (18 deg/s max.) Antenna gain   41.6 dB Beam-width   1.3 deg Transmission tube   Magnetron Peak power   50 kW Pulse width   0.5 µs Pulse repetition frequency   1,800 Hz (max.) Polarization   H, V Doppler processing   PPP, FFT Noise figure   2.3 dB Observation range   80 km Observation parameters   ZH, VD, W, ZDR, þhv, φDP, KDP