Methods of Acquisition and Processing of Data

Abstract

In the U.S.S.R. the radar echo sounding of antarctic ice thickness started on a systematic basis on the 11th SAE (1966). A radar of GUYS-1M4 type was used then to measure ice thickness. Recording of thickness measurements was made by photographing amplitude displays (‘A-displays’) from the oscilloscope screen. The recording interval between frames was 15s, corresponding to one kilometer of flight distance (in an IL-14 aircraft). Data were recorded both on a photo film and in the flight log. The flight log information included flight direction, flight distance, and the estimated ice thickness. The conditions of recording, shapes and fluctuations of radio signals, operation of individual units, and other useful information for data processing were included in the log. Photofilms and flight logs were stored for possible retrieval and use.