Feature-Aided Tracking, Detection, and Identification of Moving Targets Using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)

The Goleta Star LLC team proposes to develop advanced capability for feature-aided tracking, detection and ID of Moving Targets, vehicles and dismounts, using SAR.  In Phase I we developed coherent moving target detection algorithms using an along track monopulse SAR system, and demonstrated the merits of these algorithms with the X-band GOTCHA spotlight SAR data.  To improve the detection capability of this system, we utilized a subaperture processing over nonlinear flight paths of the GOTCHA platform.  For the Phase II of this program, we plan to analyze and develop motion estimation and tracking algorithms; the resultant estimated motion parameters may also be exploited for imaging moving targets.  An important issue that will be addressed by us is to study and implement practical algorithms to resolve the angular Doppler ambiguity of a moving target.  We will include ancillary data collection; dismounts will be used for targets as well as moving vehicles.  A hardware implementation approach of nonlinear subaperture processing for real-time implementation of MTI, association & tracking, and motion estimation algorithms in support of a hardware System Development Plan (SDP) will be pursued.  All the codes that result from this effort will be shared with/transitioned to the members of the AFRL-WPAFB. BENEFIT: The anticipated result from successful completion of this project will be a set of innovative subaperture-based nonlinear SAR signal processing algorithms and their associated hardware implementation for real-time processing to detect, track and image moving targets that are applicable in surveillance and reconnaissance radar platforms of the Departments of Defense, Homeland, and Justice.