Planetary Bistatic Radar

TL;DR

Planetary bistatic radar, utilizing next-generation telescopes like the ngVLA, can significantly enhance the detection and analysis of solar system bodies, improving sensitivity and sky coverage for planetary science and navigation.

Contribution

This paper proposes leveraging the ngVLA for planetary radar, demonstrating its potential to rival existing facilities and expand observational capabilities without requiring a transmitter.

Findings

ngVLA can improve signal-to-noise ratios for asteroid observations

Goldstone-ngVLA bistatic setup could match Arecibo's sensitivity

Enhanced sky access broadens planetary radar observation opportunities

Abstract

Planetary radar observations offer the potential for probing the properties of characteristics of solid bodies throughout the inner solar system and at least as far as the orbit of Saturn. In addition to the direct scientific value, precise orbital determinations can be obtained from planetary radar observations, which are in turn valuable for mission planning or spacecraft navigation and planetary defense. The next-generation Very Large Array would not have to be equipped with a transmitter to be an important asset in the world's planetary radar infrastructure. Bistatic radar, in which one antenna transmits (e.g., Arecibo or Goldstone) and another receives, are used commonly today, with the Green Bank Telescope (GBT) serving as a receiver. The improved sensitivity of the ngVLA relative to the GBT would improve the signal-to-noise ratios on many targets and increase the accessible volume specifically for asteroids. Goldstone-ngVLA bistatic observations would have the potential of rivaling the sensitivity of Arecibo, but with much wider sky access.