High-Frequency Radars for the Oceanographer: Basic Principles

by Charles-Antoine Guérin

Overview

This book presents High-Frequency Radars (HFR), extensively utilized for monitoring ocean surface currents and sea state along coastal regions. It serves as a comprehensive synthesis of essential principles underlying HFR, catering to readers without specialized expertise in any particular aspect. The first part of the book elucidates the principles and techniques necessary for interpreting radar signals in relation to ocean currents. Following this, the second part explores the physical mechanisms governing the propagation and scattering of electromagnetic waves across the ocean surface. Lastly, the third part offers practical examples and applications of HFR drawn from everyday practice. Tailored primarily for graduate students, and researchers in geophysics and oceanography, this book provides a comprehensive understanding of HFR technology and its utilization.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9783031956416
Publisher:	Springer Nature Switzerland
Publication date:	09/17/2025
Series:	Geophysics and Environmental Physics
Pages:	232
Product dimensions:	6.10(w) x 9.25(h) x (d)

About the Author

Charles-Antoine Guérin obtained a Ph.D. in theoretical Physics in 1998 from the University of Aix-Marseille. Following this, he assumed the role of assistant professor in 1999 after completing two short postdoctoral positions in Sweden and Italy. Between 1999 and 2007, Guérin was affiliated with the Fresnel Institute in Marseille, where he honed his expertise in electromagnetic scattering from rough surfaces. In 2007, Guérin secured a professorship at the University of Toulon, joining the Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO). Since then, his focus has shifted towards ocean remote sensing, marking a transition in his career trajectory. Notably, since 2017, he has spearheaded the High-Frequency Radar (HFR) network at the MIO, emerging as a prominent figure with comprehensive proficiency in all facets—be it theoretical, numerical, or experimental—of High-Frequency radars within the realm of oceanography. In addition to his research endeavors, Guérin has dedicated seventeen years to teaching physics, remote sensing, and signal processing at the master's level. His courses have served as foundational resources, contributing significantly to the academic landscape. Moreover, Guérin maintains close ties with various stakeholders in the HFR community, including radar manufacturers, with whom he actively collaborates, sharing his methodologies and software solutions.

Table of Contents

Introduction.- From Antenna Voltage to Surface Currents.- Physical principles of radio oceanography.- Radar signal processing.- High Resolution Techniques.- From Sea Surface to Antenna Voltage.- Free space radiation.- Radiation over a flat ocean.- Scattering from the sea surface.- The theory in practice.