Imaging of satellites in a low earth orbit with IoSiS - antenna validation and first results

Inhalt:
The Microwaves and Radar Institute of DLR is running an experimental radar system called IoSiS (Imaging of Satellites in Space), in order to do basic research on advanced methods for imaging of objects in space and, furthermore, for the purpose of gathering high-resolution radar images of objects in a low earth orbit (LEO). Such images can be an appropriate tool for generally analyzing satellite structures and especially identifying possible mechanical damages caused by space debris, for example. Furthermore the analysis of unknown objects is an eligible interest. Considering the radar imaging process of objects in LEO, based on inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) geometry, several error sources have to be taken into account. Results from first imaging experiments are discussed with respect to such challenges in the imaging process.