Ultralow cost and size radar for AAM enhanced mobile weather station

would be tested with our teammates at Oklahoma University to ensure its sensitivity and cost-effectiveness. The C-band radar, designed for affordability, can detect light rain within a 10 km radius, offering 360-degree coverage. The Ka-band radar would be engineered to identify cloud formations up to 10 km away, aiding in weather prediction. These radars can be deployed individually or as a set, complying with ASTM standards for integration into nowcasting networks. For the S-band radar, Agile RF Systems would be conducting simulations with Oklahoma University to validate its performance and cost. The C-band radar's architecture would be finalized based on weather modeling, with a focus on key performance metrics set with NASA. It will feature an Active Electronically Steered Antenna (AESA) and a detailed cost model. The Ka-band radar's design process includes confirming performance metrics with NASA, optimizing its reflector and feed design, and establishing a cost model. Each radar's cost model will detail essential components like single board computers and Radome enclosures. Development roadmaps and ASTM compliance plans will be documented. With low implementation risks, these radars are slated for demonstration in a subsequent Phase II project.

Agile RF Systems is architecting a suite of low-cost, compact radars to enhance weather monitoring for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), crucial for safe and efficient operations. These radars, designed for mobile use, include an S-band wind profiler, a C-band precipitation radar, and a Ka-band cloud radar, each offering unique capabilities to detect various weather phenomena. These radars would leverage low-cost Active Electronically Steered Arrays (AESAs) and software-defined radios, making them financially viable at approximately $10K each. This cost-effectiveness, combined with their modest 10 km observational range, presents a compelling solution for AAM weather monitoring. For NASA, these radars offer a scalable, cost-effective solution to enhance weather monitoring for various applications, from drone operations to manned electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. They provide critical data for nowcasting, aiding in the safe and efficient management of airspace, particularly around vertiports. Their mobile nature allows for flexible deployment, supporting NASA's missions in diverse locations and conditions. By integrating these radars into NASA's operations, the agency can improve its situational awareness, enhance safety, and optimize mission planning. One of the key non-NASA applications for these radars can be the commercial Urban Air Mobility (UAM) sector. As cities become more congested, UAM offers a promising solution to reduce traffic and improve transportation efficiency. Companies developing drones and eVTOL vehicles for passenger and cargo transport can integrate these radars to enhance their operational safety and efficiency. The radars can provide real-time weather data, enabling these companies to make informed decisions about flight routes, takeoff and landing times, and overall fleet management. Meteorologist worldwide can make use of these micro-radars for filling up gaps in coverage due to their very limited weather station instruments currently available. The C-band implementation can also be used for air traffic surveillance as an affordable and all weather capable means of monitoring and managing AAM routes. The weather station is very low cost and could be deployed along major highways. This data could easily be used by Departments of Transportation to more effectively monitor and manage travel for severe weather conditions.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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