A Survey of the Limits on Radar Imaging.
Abstract
This paper explores the theoretical limits on performance of millimeter-wave radar imaging systems whose purpose is to recognize by shape and, as far as possible, to identify military targets on the ground. It concludes that, with the possible exception of synthetic aperture radar, such systems, using antennas of a practical size, cannot provide adequate resolution for imaging, as defined in the ordinary sense, tank-size targets over ranges of tactical interest. Among the items considered are target characteristics that affect image quality, the image quality needed for target recognition and identification, and the theoretical relations between optical system parameters and image properties such as depth of field and resolution. Also considered are the appropriateness of various definitions of resolution that appear in the literature, distinctions that must be made between extended targets and point targets, and the differences between coherent and incoherent illumination with respect to resolution. In addition, this paper considers the possibility of improving image quality, particularly resolution, with the aid of superresolution techniques and apodization. It also estimates the possible reduction in the number of elements in a large antenna array by the use of an optimum array thinning distribution of the elements.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA108598
Entities
People
- Irvin W. Kay
Organizations
- Institute for Defense Analyses