Retrodirective Noise Correlating Radar: Fast Detection of Small Projectiles Plus Imaging of the Scene

During the Phase II effort our primary objective is to demonstrate the X-band retrodirective noise correlating (RNC) radar out to approximately 200 yards on targets having an RCS of about ~30 dBsm (50-caliber bullet end-on) or greater. This will require a dual-mode operation: a noise radar mode and a retrodirective mode. The target will be initially detected and located in noise-radar mode with modest range and spatial resolution. Then as the target approaches close enough to cross the retrodirective "fence", it will be detected much more quickly and located in angle and range with enough accuracy to cue a counter-system. A secondary objective of the Phase II effort is to augment the fast detection and locating attributes of the radar with a three-dimensional, X-band imaging capability. Images will be constructed from the multitude of cross-correlations available from the radar, and the imagery will complement the fast-projective detection with valuable information about the local environment, sources of clutter, the identity of the shooter, etc. The imaging capability could also be valuable for all-condition vehicular navigation through sandstorms, smoke, fog, etc.