Radio Echo Observations of Meteors in the Southern Hemisphere

Abstract

The results of a radio survey of meteor activity at Adelaide are presented. The radiants and activities of six major meteor showers (Geminids, day-time Arietids, ?-Perseids, d-Aquarids, Corona Australids, Orionids) have been measured by methods which are described, and the mass distributions in three of these showers are discussed. Seasonal and diurnal variations in the background activity of sporadic meteors are examined in relation to the radiation patterns of the aerial systems. Height distributions for meteors of three showers (Geminids, day-time Arietids, ?-Perseids) are given. Diurnal variations in the height distribution of sporadic meteors do not conform to those expected from the motion of the apex of the Earth's way.