Radar observations of Mars and 'fupiter at 70 CM
Abstract
The radar cross section of Mars at 430 MHz (70 cm wavelength) has been measured during the opposition in March1965 to vary between 0.03 and 0.13 times the geometric cross section with an average value of about 0.07, similar to that found for the moon. Correlation between high values of cross section and centrally located, visually dark regions of the surface is noted. Spectral analysis discloses a persistent, low4evel broad-band scattering component in addition to a more variable and prominent narrow-band component. In general, the Martian surface slopes corresponding to the latter (quasi-specular) component are sub- stantially smoother than the lunar surface slopes similarly derived. Measurements of echo delay to the planet Mars are reported which span the period 19November 1964 to 3 June 1965. A search for radar echoes from Jupiter at 430 MHz during the oppositions of 1964 and 1965 failed to yield positive results, despite a sensitivity several orders of magnitude better than employed by other groups in earlier (1963) attempts at higher frequencies.
- Publication:
-
The Astronomical Journal
- Pub Date:
- August 1967
- DOI:
- 10.1086/110307
- Bibcode:
- 1967AJ.....72..771D