Introducing Equivalent Radar Cross Section – A First Step Toward new Radiometric Requirement Definitions

Abstract:
Stringent radiometric SAR system requirements often significantly shape the design and cost of modern SAR systems. Yet the wording in current requirement documents is ambiguous, and a diligent conformance assessment at the end of project phases currently questionable. In order to improve the situation for future SAR missions, a review of the requirements is proposed. As a first step toward this end, a new radiometric measurement quantity (equivalent radar cross section) is introduced, which resolves the problem of frequency and angular dependent, complex backscatter of measured targets. A numerical example for an important special case, a calibration corner reflector, is given to stress the need.