What enables RADAR to operate effectively both during the day and night?

RADAR operates effectively both during the day and at night primarily because it has its own energy source. Unlike optical systems that rely on natural or artificial light to capture images, RADAR systems emit and receive their own electromagnetic waves, specifically in the microwave range. This capability allows RADAR to function independently of lighting conditions, enabling it to detect objects and gather data regardless of whether it is day or night, or if visibility is otherwise compromised due to weather conditions such as fog or rain.

This self-sufficiency in energy means that RADAR can penetrate clouds, and fog, and operate in total darkness without any degradation in performance. This contrasts with systems that depend on external lighting or ambient light, which would fail under low-light conditions. The nature of RADAR technology makes it particularly valuable for a wide range of applications including air traffic control, weather monitoring, and military operations, where consistent operational capability is crucial.