Radar is an electronic system that measures the distance and direction of objects by sending out an electromagnetic pulse and waiting for the echo to return. Various types of radar are crucial in aviation. Area Radars, Surveillance Radars, and Approach Radars help controllers monitor aircraft in their designated areas. Precision Approach Radars (PAR) offer precise guidance for aircraft landing under instrument conditions. Surface Movement Radar tracks aircraft and vehicles on the airport surface, while Weather Radar provides pilots with critical information about hazardous weather, especially thunderstorms. Radio Altimeters accurately measure how high an aircraft is above the ground. Additionally, Secondary Surveillance Radar allows aircraft to send back extra information, like identification and altitude, to the radar system. Radar services can assist with identification, traffic coordination, and separation. There are three main types of air traffic radar service: Radar Control Service for aircraft in controlled airspace, Radar Advisory Service for those in advisory airspace, and Radar Information Service for aircraft flying outside these areas.
