What does beamwidth refer to in a RADAR system?

Beamwidth in a RADAR system specifically refers to the range of angles between the half-power points in the radiation pattern. This angle indicates how focused the RADAR beam is when emitting signals. A narrower beamwidth means that the RADAR can distinguish between closely spaced targets, as the energy is concentrated in a smaller area, enhancing target resolution.

Understanding beamwidth is critical for RADAR performance since it determines the system's ability to detect and track objects within a specific angular range. For instance, a RADAR with a wide beamwidth can cover a broader area but may struggle to distinguish between multiple targets. In contrast, a RADAR with a narrow beamwidth can effectively identify closely positioned targets.

This concept highlights the importance of beamwidth in optimizing RADAR operation for various applications, such as surveillance, navigation, and targeting, by ensuring that the energy is directed appropriately to achieve the desired detection and tracking capabilities.