Bistatic Coverage Driven Assessment of Proposed Space Radar Constellations

Abstract

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is a moving platform-based radar imaging processing system. In order to provide day-and-night imagery, the Space-borne Radar Systems (SRS) is a recommended United States Defense SAR system. There are multiple open-source methodologies for analysis that consider distinct multiple SAR constellations in terms of cost, performance, and the global coverage. Nevertheless, analysis of all of the prior proposed constellations lacks assessment in terms of bistatic potentiality. Bistatic SAR can efficiently deliver 3D imagery which a monostatic operation system lacks. The current analysis presented in this research looks at the existing constellations along with the newly proposed constellation concerning the coverages which are monostatic as well as bistatic in nature. It is deduced that the 2 constellations with equal satellite count vary with regards to the performance when one for monostatic coverage is compared to another for bistatic coverage. Based on observations, a constellation is recommended comprising of 2 constellations of Walker 5/5/1 type which are offset in terms of Right Ascension of the Ascending Node (RAAN). On comparing with standard Walker 9/3/1 constellation, suggested constellation satellites, total count of 10, delivered analogous monostatic coverage, however, much enhanced b istatic c overage is also observed. Augmenting the relevance of analysis, presented examination also illustrated the significance of monostatic coverage along with bistatic coverage while developing a SAR satellite system.