1 A Study for a Space-Based Passive Multi-Channel SAR

Abstract—This paper deals with the potentialities obtained by splitting the passive antenna of a space-based bistatic SAR into multiple sub-apertures. A preliminary analysis is performed in order to identify the main orbital and system design parameters for a satellite equipped with a multi-channel passive radar sensor. The effectiveness of the resulting bistatic system is investigated paying particular attention to the assessment of the achievable MTI, Enhanced Imaging and ECCM capabilities. In particular the conceived system is shown to allow: (i) clutter cancellation and detection of slowly moving ground targets for surveillance purpose, (ii) relocation of moving targets in high resolution SAR images, (iii) increased SAR imaging capabilities in terms of extended swath and/or increased azimuth resolution, (iv) protection of the SAR sensor from E.M