Polarization isolation requirements for linear dual-polarization weather Radar in simultaneous transmission mode of operation

A dual-polarization radar system operating in simultaneous transmission mode of both horizontal and vertical polarization states is a viable implementation if only copolar measurements are needed. The simultaneous transmission of horizontal and vertical polarizations results in an arbitrary elliptical polarization state transmitted, whereas the reception states in horizontal and vertical polarizations are neither copolar nor cross-polar to the transmitted state. Because of this, it is often referred as the hybrid mode. Previous studies have shown that the hybrid mode in the linear horizontal and vertical polarization basis is capable of providing measurements similar to the alternate transmission mode for most measurement conditions. These findings are based on the assumption of perfect sensing systems. This paper presents the results of radar system limitations on hybrid mode measurements that in turn are converted to system requirements. It is shown that the polarization purity requirement is more stringent for the hybrid mode compared to the alternate mode of operation.