Measurement of Elevation Angles Above the Sea Using the Matrix Pencil Method under Multipath Propagation and Thermal Radar Noise

The work investigated the Matrix Pencil Method as a means of improving the accuracy of measuring elevation angles of low-altitude targets above the sea. The purpose of the study was to obtain data on its effectiveness in conditions of interference not only of multipath propagation represented by specular and diffuse reflection, but also of the thermal noise of the receiving radar channels. The study was performed by computer simulation. It covered sea waves, under which the conditions of both specular and strong diffuse reflection were satisfied, as well as various noise levels in the receiving channels of the radar. Data were obtained on errors in measuring the elevation angle under these conditions when using various a priori parameters of the Matrix Pencil Method. Recommendations on the choice of these parameters have been developed to minimize errors in measuring elevation angles.