radar astronomy

the branch of astronomy that uses radar to map the surfaces of planetary bodies, as the moon and Venus, and to determine periods of rotation.


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World English Dictionary
radar astronomy
the use of radar to map the surfaces of the planets, their satellites, and other bodies

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American Heritage
Science Dictionary
radar astronomy  
The scientific study of nearby astronomical objects by reflecting microwaves off the objects and analyzing the echoes. The techniques of radio astronomy can be tailored to answer specific questions, such as the rotation period of the inner planets and the Moon. They have has also been used to test General Relativity, measure distances and features of planets in the solar system, and determine the composition, position, and spin of asteroids.
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Example sentences
Unlike radio astronomy, radar astronomy involves transmission of radio signals as well as reception.
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