Can airborne radar be used to navigate around thunderstorms?

Airborne radar is indeed a vital tool for navigating around thunderstorms, which is why the first choice is the correct one. It allows pilots to detect precipitation and analyze its intensity, enabling them to identify areas of thunderstorms, turbulence, and potential hazards. This capability is critical for maintaining safety and ensuring effective flight paths when encountering severe weather conditions.

Using airborne radar, pilots can visualize storm structures and make informed decisions about altitude and route changes to avoid dangerous areas. The radar displays real-time data, which is essential for managing flight during adverse weather.

The other options suggest limitations that do not reflect the actual capabilities of airborne radar in storm navigation. Specifically, saying radar can only be effective under clear conditions or on the ground does not align with its designed purpose — to aid in-flight navigation, even in inclement weather.