High-resolution drone-borne SAR using off-the-shelf high-frequency radars

Ali Bekar*, Michail Antoniou, Christopher J. Baker

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

This paper examines real-world, drone-borne SAR imaging using off-the-shelf radars transmitting at frequencies of 24 and 77 GHz. Drone-borne systems have the potential to make SAR imaging affordable as well offering access to otherwise difficult locations. Transmit powers and sensor sizes, in general, are restricted due to the limited payload capacities of small drone platforms. Hence, they are better suited to short-range applications of up to a few hundred meters in range. At high frequencies, the radar form factor is reduced and the potential for obtaining very fine resolution imagery is improved. However, wind turbulence may cause fluctuations in the drone's trajectory due to its lightweight. This instability, combined with the low accuracy of current on-board GPS/INSs, makes image formation more challenging. Further, short-range operation leads to significant space-variant errors, limiting the number of prominent targets observable within the beam. We are investigating the SAR imaging performance for conventional, compact high-frequency radars, we are presenting the concept of an algorithm capable of handling spatially variant motion errors, and we test the validity of our approach using a technology demonstrator built at the University of Birmingham. For the first time, we present short-range, fine resolution imagery (6cm x 32cm) of an extended target area using drones at 24 and 77 GHz using this approach.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2021 IEEE Radar Conference (RadarConf21)
Subtitle of host publicationRadar on the Move
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Pages1-6
Number of pages6
ISBN (Electronic)9781728176093
ISBN (Print)9781728176109 (PoD)
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 18 Jun 2021
Event2021 IEEE Radar Conference, RadarConf 2021 - Atlanta, United States
Duration: 8 May 202114 May 2021

Publication series

NameIEEE National Radar Conference - Proceedings
PublisherIEEE
ISSN (Print)1097-5659
ISSN (Electronic)2375-5318

Conference

Conference2021 IEEE Radar Conference, RadarConf 2021
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityAtlanta
Period8/05/2114/05/21

Keywords

  • Drone SAR
  • mini-UAV SAR

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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