Dual-polarized Cross-correlating Radiometer And Method And Apparatus For Calibrating Same

Abstract

A dual linearly-polarized cross-correlating radiometer including an apparatus for calibrating the cross-correlating channel of the radiometer is described. The apparatus for calibrating the cross-correlating channel comprises a first calibration load, a second calibration load positioned perpendicularly thereto, and means for rotating the calibration loads relative to the feedhorn of the radiometer. The calibration loads are moved through several angular positions and the output voltages of the cross-correlating channel are measured at the various angular positions and used to estimate the gains and offset of the cross-correlating channel.