The MST radar technique: Potential for middle atmospheric studies

We examine the potential of the MST (mesosphere-stratosphere-troposphere) radar technique for obtaining detailed information on the middle atmosphere. This technique-which uses very sensitive coherent VHF and UHF radars-is capable of detecting signal returns arising from weak fluctuations in the atmospheric refractive index. With certain limitations the MST technique is capable of continually observing winds, waves, turbulence and atmospheric stability over the height range 1–100 km with good-to-excellent time and space resolution. We examine the relatively large body of literature that has been written over the past few years and outline some aspects of a promising future.