What is the primary factor affecting Inverse Radar Doppler Sounding (IRDS)?

The primary factor affecting Inverse Radar Doppler Sounding (IRDS) is moisture. This technique relies on the presence of water vapor, as moisture significantly influences the propagation of radar waves through the atmosphere. The phase and frequency of the radar waves are altered by moisture content, leading to variations in the Doppler shift observed.

In remote sensing applications, accurate moisture measurements are essential for weather forecasting and climate studies, as they help in assessing atmospheric conditions. Higher moisture content can lead to more significant scattering and absorption of radar signals, which in turn affects the interpretation of radar data. Thus, understanding moisture's role is crucial for effective utilization of IRDS in meteorological observations.