Ka-Band SAR for Spaceborne Applications based on Scan-on- Receive Techniques

Abstract:
This paper presents the results of an investigation into the feasibility of Ka-Band SAR with high resolution capabilities. A Ka-band SAR has not currently been flown in space for Earth observation purposes, although several instruments have been operated on aircraft platforms which exhibit very good performance. The short wavelength allows for high gain antennas, which can be utilised by employing scan-on-receive techniques, and leads to power efficient instruments. However, the higher atmospheric losses at Ka band have to be considered in the design.