What does the term "clutter" refer to in RADAR systems?

In RADAR systems, the term "clutter" refers to background noise that interferes with target detection. Clutter encompasses a variety of unwanted signals that can obscure or confuse the detection of actual targets of interest. This can include reflections from the terrain, weather conditions, or other irrelevant sources that contribute to the overall signal environment.

Clutter can significantly impact the performance of RADAR systems by masking the signals that reflect from the intended targets. Effective RADAR operation often involves advanced signal processing techniques aimed at distinguishing between the desired target signals and clutter. Therefore, understanding and managing clutter is essential for accurate detection and tracking of targets in various applications, such as air traffic control and maritime navigation.