Both equivalent radar reflectivity factor (Z e) and specific attenuation (k) in several snow
events are measured using a dual Ka-band radar system. Different kZ e relations are
obtained depending on surface air temperature. When surface air temperature is just above
0° C, kZ e relations scatter and larger k values than those of rain appear. On the other hand,
when surface air temperature is below 0° C, both k and Z e are small and a slight positive
trend appears in the kZ e relations. The difference of kZ e relations can be attributed to the …

A dual Ka-band radar system was developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
for GPM/DPR algorithm development. The system consists of two identical Ka-band radars.
Both the equivalent radar reflectivity factor (Z e) and specific attenuation (k) can be estimated
at each range of the path. The estimated kZ e relations of rain, snow, and the melting layer
can be used for the GPM/DPR algorithm development. Those parameters of snow at Ka
band are important. Observations using the dual Ka radar system were performed in …