How Can I Maximize My Radio's Power for Moonbounce Communication?

[proteo]

Hi! I am an amateur radio operator. How many watts should my radio's power be to bounce signals off the Moon?

 

[berkeman]

Hi fellow HAM! What have you found so far in your searching? I think I looked it up once out of curiosity, but I don't remember what I found. What band are you planning on using to try this? How much power do you have available with your current setups? 73.

 

[Baluncore]

How many watts should my radio's power be to bounce signals off the Moon?

What is your operating wavelength ?
What type and how big are the transmit and receive antennas ?

 

[Klystron]

Considering lunar radio frequency (RF) targets, several exploration vehicles left RF corner reflectors on the lunar surface to aid future radio explorers such as yourself, as well as laser and optical reflectors.

Many papers have been published on reflecting RF signals from the moon, a common exercise for radar students. I have read several papers since 1970 on this topic. This IEEE compendium offers guidance on system wavelengths, timing and power levels for transmission, reflection and reception. My IEEE membership has lapsed with retirement but many PF members likely have access as well as universities.