What does the term 'sea return' refer to in radar technology?

The term 'sea return' in radar technology describes the phenomenon where radar signals bounce off the surface of the sea, creating echoes. This returns information about the sea surface, but it can also lead to clutter in the radar display due to the numerous reflections caused by waves and other water surface conditions. This clutter can sometimes obscure or complicate the interpretation of radar targets, making it challenging to distinguish between actual navigational hazards and the noise generated by the ocean's surface. Understanding sea return is important for mariners as it helps them interpret radar data accurately, particularly in varying sea conditions.