Abstract

Inference of target properties from Doppler lidar returns requires precise knowledge of system efficiency, attenuation and degradation due to atmospheric propagation effects and system parameters respectively. Within the latter category, the parameters that determine the range dependence of the system response function (the antenna gain function) are the telescope diameter, the range at which the telescope is focused and the beam illumination irradiation patterns on the transmitting and receiver apertures. The results of an analysis of the antenna gain function dependence on these parameters will be presented and the predictions compared with experimental data. The results presented are useful as guidelines in design of systems for applications requiring a match of the antenna gain function to the requirements of a particular application, or for what is usually the requirement, that of maximizing performance at long range.