In radar, what is meant by 'multipath propagation'?

Multipath propagation refers to the phenomenon where radar signals reflect off various surfaces, such as buildings, trees, or vehicles, before they ultimately reach the target. This can lead to multiple signals arriving at the radar receiver at slightly different times and angles. As a result, the received signal can be a combination of direct and reflected signals, which can complicate the interpretation of the data. Understanding this concept is crucial, as it impacts target detection, ranging accuracy, and overall radar system performance. The presence of multipath propagation can cause issues such as ghosting or inaccuracies in the position of the detected object, thereby necessitating advanced processing techniques to mitigate its effects and ensure reliable measurements.