Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
High Resolution Tactical
Synthetic Aperture Radar
(TSAR)
Chapter 12
This chapter is coauthored with Brian J. Smith
1
This chapter provides an introduction to Tactical Synthetic Aperture Radar
(TSAR). The purpose of this chapter is to further develop the readersÓ under-
standing of SAR by taking a closer look at high resolution spotlight SAR
image formation algorithms, motion compensation techniques, autofocus algo-
rithms, and performance metrics.
12.1. Introduction
Modern airborne radar systems are designed to perform a large number of
functions which range from detection and discrimination of targets to mapping
large areas of ground terrain. This mapping can be performed by the Synthetic
Aperture Radar (SAR). Through illuminating the ground with coherent radia-
tion and measuring the echo signals, SAR can produce high resolution two-
dimensional (and in some cases three-dimensional) imagery of the ground sur-
face. The quality of ground maps generated by SAR is determined by the size
of the resolution cell. A resolution cell is specified by both range and azimuth
resolutions of the system. Other factors affecting the size of the resolution cells
are (1) size of the processed map and the amount of signal processing
involved; (2) cost consideration; and (3) size of the objects that need to be
resolved in the map. For example, mapping gross features of cities and coast-
lines does not require as much resolution when compared to resolving houses,
vehicles, and streets.
1. Dr. Brian J. Smith is with the US Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM),
Redstone Arsenal, Alabama.
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