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This is the Radar Data Acquisition (RDA)
of the Louisville-Ft. Knox (KLVX) WSR-88D Doppler radar. The RDA is located at Ft. Knox, KY. Inside the large white protective
covering (radome) is a huge antenna that continuously rotates
sending signals to and receiving signals from targets in the
atmosphere. These targets are "hydrometeors," ranging
from very small, non-precipitating particles (virga) to very
large raindrops and hail from thunderstorms. The antenna also
can sense movement of particles directed toward and away from
the RDA, which is especially helpful in assessing severe thunderstorms.
The antenna is very sensitive and powerful, allowing forecasters
to evaluate the structure, evolution, and motion of precipitation
systems in great detail. The RDA can be controlled by a PC at
NWS Louisville called the Unit Control Position (UCP; not shown).
Data received at the RDA is processed then sent to the Radar
Products Generator (RPG) at NWS Louisville for further processing
before final display at AWIPS
workstations and the Principal
User Processor (PUP) workstation. |
