SUMATRA-94, A conceptual Approach for a Low Cost Millimeterwave Synthetic Aperture Radar on Board a Model Aircraft

Conference: EUSAR 2006 - 6th European Conference on Synthetic Aperture Radar
05/16/2006 - 05/18/2006 at Dresden, Germany

Proceedings: EUSAR 2006

Pages: 4Language: englishTyp: PDF

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Authors:
Bräutigam, Meinolf; Essen, Helmut; Brauns, Ralf; Konrad, Günther; Sommer, Rainer; Wahlen, Alfred; Wilke, Jörn (FGAN-FHR, Neuenahrer Str. 20, D-53343 Wachtberg, Germany)

Abstract:
Based upon most recent advances in millimeterwave technology, especially monolithic integrated low noise or medium power HEMT amplifiers and multi channel receivers, a miniaturized experimental radar at 94 GHz was designed with the aim to be used on board of a remotely piloted model aircraft. This highly advanced front-end technique was combined with of-the-shelf model aircraft hardware and miniaturized GPS and data transmission equipment which is readily available. Goal of the project is to demonstrate, that using modern 94-GHz front-end technique combined with achievable back-end components it is possible under the already known advantages of the higher millimeterwave bands with respect of ease of SAR data processing, to set up a versatile SAR system usable for a wide range of remote sensing applications at medium range. The paper describes the current state of the research project SUMATRA-94 and gives some perspectives for future applications.