Synthetic Aperture Radar Motion Compensation Using Autofocus

41083 November 20, 1996 Technology Service Corporation The Department of Energy has the mission to perform research in areas related to arms control and nonproliferation. While Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is considered to be one of the key sensors for monitoring compliance, radars of high enough quality to be used in this application are costly. One of the most expensive subsystems for a high quality SAR is the Inertial Navigation System (INS) used to perform motion compensation. This project will develop and test signal based motion compensation techniques that offer the potential for eliminating the INS. These techniques are based on the use of advanced autofocus algorithms formulated to implement a rapid response to turbulent conditions. In Phase I, the technique will be analyzed and compared to conventional motion compensation approaches to verify feasibility. In Phase II, the signal based motion compensation techniques will be fully developed and tested. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: By reducing cost and complexity, the commercial use of SAR for applications such as radargrammetry or terrain aided navigation for autonomous landing guidance of aircraft in limited visibility becomes more feasible. Defense applications in aircraft and Unmanned Air Vehicles also become less costly.