Physical scale modeling of VHF/UHF SAR collection geometries

Abstract

A method of physically modeling a linear flight path SAR collection in a scale-model VHF/UHF ISAR facility is presented. Accurate modeling of a SAR's collection geometry is necessary if meaningful comparisons are to be made between scale-model and field imagery. The advantage of collecting data in a linear flight path geometry is that height-unlimited focusing of scatterers can be achieved. The technique utilizes precise orientation of the target's azimuth and elevation relative to the fixed radar antenna, thereby effectively simulating a linear flight path collection. The impact of such a collection at VHF/UHF frequencies is demonstrated by comparing linear flight path ISAR imagery with traditional fixed grazing angle ISAR imagery. Both simulated and instrumented imagery are presented.