Researchers develop sensitive new radar for weather observation

China has developed a millimeter-wave cloud radar for Beijing's new international airport, offering weather forecasts with higher accuracy than previous generations.

The radar was developed by a research institute affiliated with the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corp, the country's leading radar maker. Established in 1958, the institute developed China's first wind-profiler radar for airports.

Hu Qingrong, director of the institute, said the millimeter-wave cloud radar can be used in various fields, such as atmospheric sciences, weather modification, automatic cloud observation, and weather services for aviation. It is capable of monitoring clouds, rain, fog and other conditions for meteorological departments, airports and ports.