Photo of the Week: Multifunction Phased Array Radar (MPAR)
June 3, 2025
The MPAR concept envisions a single scalable radar capable of performing aircraft surveillance and weather observations, and of coalescing the L, S, and C operating bands to S band only. An MPAR system offers the phased array attributes of adaptive scanning, higher sample rates, and variable waveforms. An S-band-only operation would free up portions of the microwave spectrum traditionally dedicated to government use. The current MPAR Advanced Technology Demonstrator installed at the National Severe Storms Laboratory in Oklahoma boasts 76 phased array panels, 5000 elements, full polarimetric capability, and achievable radiated power of 60 kilowatts. Photo Credit: Nicole Fandel