Formation Considerations for Distributed Satellite SAR Systems

Abstract

Distributed multichannel synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging is a promising concept for future Earth observation missions. The multichannel concept can mitigate the pulse repetition frequency (PRF) or minimum SAR antenna area constraints inherent to single-channel SAR systems. Thus high azimuth resolution can be maintained, while acquiring wide swathes. This significantly increases the imaging capabilities compared to current missions in terms of high spatial and temporal resolution. An important step in the design of a multi-satellite mission is the selection of an appropriate formation. Besides the driving impact on the mission objectives also safety aspects and operationalrequirements have to be considered. In this paper an exemplary Helix formation is analyzed and the impact of different options is discussed.