Apparatus for sensing distances between two objects by using multiple pulses from the detector and from the object to be detected by using a transmitter and not using any reflected waves the reliability and the ability to reject clutter is improved. The periods between transmission are accurately controlled so that there is no signal returned until the object to be detected generates such a signal. As a result it is possible to accurately measure the distance between two objects and indeed the system may be used between two objects when both are in motion.