A Doppler radar is used to measure various weather phenomenon using radio waves from a range of national weather service sites around the United States.
Invention
According to USA Today, Doppler radar is named after Christian Doppler, an Austrian mathematician who measured sound waves as they bounced back to him from various objects.
Use in the United States
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association first used a Doppler radar in 1964. The Doppler radar allowed scientists to measure movements inside the storm.
Sites
The United States' National Weather Service has Doppler radar sites in all fifty states as well as various US territories such as Guam and Puerto Rico. There is a radar site in Cuba which is operated by the Department of Defense.
Monitoring
Anyone with an active Internet connection may monitor any of the National Weather Services' weather radars through the National Weather Service's website.
Home Use
Doppler radar can be used to monitor a baby's heart beat. According to BabyBeat, in-home portable Doppler radars allow for expecting mothers to monitor their fetus' heart beat from the comfort of their homes.
Tags: Doppler radar, National Weather, United States, Doppler radar used, heart beat