Three-Dimensional (3-D) Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Image Formation and Exploitation

Neva Ridge Technologies proposes to develop and implement an improved three-dimensional SAR processing algorithm and related data acquisition strategy focused on persistent surveillance circular staring SAR data. The main challenge to be addressed in the phase one effort will be to demonstrate a minimization of the limitations associated with the sparse nature of the anticipated elevation aperture through signal processing techniques to improve the elevation impulse response function, and a careful data collection process. This will be first demonstrated using phase one generated simulated multi-pass data, and available circular SAR data from prior (2006) collections. In addition to image data quality issues, we will establish requirements on flight lines, motion measurement systems and other system engineering related concerns. Results of these simulations will be made available to support a summer 2008 data collection.