Print this page RADAR: RAdio Detection And Ranging
J.M. Syken
Course Outline
Through the viewing of several archival/documentary films produced in the 1940s/50s/60s, we will examine the history and development of radar. We will examine its early development prior to WWII, its successful applications during WWII and post-war developments.
Furthermore, we will examine the development of ground surveillance radar for military purposes and the application of the Doppler Effect in radar systems. As well, we will examine IBM’s SAGE computer defense system which collected and coordinated data from radar stations for the air defense of the nation during the Cold War.
This course includes a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.
Learning Objective
At the conclusion of this course, the student will:
- Understand/appreciate the pre-WWII rush to develop radar systems;
- Understand/appreciate the proving-out of radar during the Battle of Britain;
- Understand/appreciate the use of radar on land, sea and air during WWII and its contribution to the allied victory;
- Understand/appreciate the principles of radar and its different forms (i.e. tracking, surveillance, search etc.;
- Understand/appreciate the use of radar for ground surveillance; and
- Understand/appreciate the SAGE computer defense system used to collect and coordinate radar data for air defense.
Intended Audience
This course is intended for architects, engineers and other design professionals.
Benefit to Attendees
The attendee/s will gain an intimate knowledge and insight into the development, innovations, technologies etc. of radar.
Course Introduction
The course incorporates the viewing of several archival/documentary films broken down as follows;
- Part 1 – Proven in War
- Part 2 - RAdio Detection And Ranging
- Part 3 – Radar’s Brain
Part 1 examines the development of radar in the years leading up to WWII and its applications during the war as a secret weapon. Part 2 examines the principles of radar and their applications including ground surveillance radar systems. Part 3 examine the SAGE computer defense system for collecting and coordinating radar data.
Course Content
Part 1 – Proven in War;
TITLE: Radar Secrets (ca.1940s)
LINK: http://archive.org/details/0436_Radar_Secrets_01_20_16_00
DURATION: 23:07
Part 2 – RAdio Detection And Ranging;
TITLE: Radar and Its Applications (1962)
LINK: http://archive.org/details/gov.archives.arc.892095
DURATION: 40:30
TITLE: The AN/TPS-25 Ground Surveillance Radar (1963)
LINK: http://archive.org/details/gov.dod.dimoc.29604
DURATION: 31:00
Part 3 – Radar’s Brain;
TITLE: On Guard! The Story of SAGE (ca.1956)
LINK: http://archive.org/details/OnGuard1956
DURATION: 12:15
Course Summary
It was the secret weapon that helped win the Second World War, a joint effort of the United States and Great Britain in the years immediately before the outbreak of war in 1939 that was proven out in the skies of southern England during the Battle of Britain (1940). Had it not been for the early warning radar provided, the battle might very well have had a different outcome. In the post-WWII years, radar was even more important as our first line of defense since the oceans that separated the United States from its potential adversaries were not an obstacle to the long-range bomber and/or ballistic missile. Radar’s role in civil aviation is critical, allowing air traffic to flow smoothly and safely. Radar has come a long way from its first use as a guide for searchlights seeking the approach of enemy aircraft.
Related Links
For additional technical information related to this subject, please visit the following websites:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BSajdavR6Yw (Film - Under the Radar - Radar Technological Development - 1:37:24)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcDT6wqDnO8 (Film: Battle Stations - Radar Documentary - 1:01:33)
Quiz
Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.
DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.
