A Highly Parallel Signal Processor for Real-Time SAR Applications

A very high throughput signal processor is shown to be capable of generating SAR images in real time as well as applying SAR signal-processing gain to provide enhanced detection of moving targets. In a strong clutter environment this enhanced detection capability is particularly useful when the target velocity vector normal to the radar is small. In this case conventional Doppler radar techniques may be less than fully effective. An example application is the detection of terrain-following aircraft and ground moving targets from a high altitude surveillance platform.