What is the minimum radar separation provided between two aircraft 40 miles from the antenna?

The minimum radar separation requirement of 5 miles between two aircraft 40 miles from the antenna is established to ensure safety in controlled airspace. The standard separation criteria take into account factors such as the radar system's accuracy, the potential for radar target radar "paint" overlap, and the need for reliable air traffic control management.

At greater distances from the antenna, radar performance tends to degrade, affecting how precisely aircraft positions can be tracked. Therefore, the 5-mile separation standard is designed to provide an ample buffer to prevent any risks associated with false targets or inaccuracies in tracking, ensuring that air traffic controllers can maintain safe distances between aircraft.

The other options suggest either a lesser separation, which could compromise safety and the ability to effectively monitor aircraft in the airspace or would not align with established guidelines that prioritize maintaining a minimum safe distance to facilitate both operational and emergency response actions efficiently.