NASA Logo

NTRS

NTRS - NASA Technical Reports Server

Back to Results
An L-band SAR for repeat pass deformation measurements on a UAV platformWe are proposing to develop a miniaturized polarimetric L-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) for repeat-pass differential interferometric measurements of deformation for rapidly deforming surfaces of geophysical interest such as volcanoes or earthquakes that is to be flown on a unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or minimally piloted vehicle (MPV). Upon surveying the capabilities and availabilities of such aircraft, the Proteus aircraft and the ALTAIR UAV appear to meet our criteria in terms of payload capabilities, flying altitude, and endurance. To support the repeat pass deformation capability it is necessary to control flight track capability of the aircraft to be within a specified 10 m tube with a goal of 1 m. This requires real-time GPS control of the autopilot to achieve these objectives that has not been demonstrated on these aircraft. Based on the Proteus and ALTAIR's altitude of 13.7 km (45,000 ft), we are designing a fully polarimetric L-band radar with 80 MHz bandwidth and a 16 km range swath. The radar will have an active electronic beam steering antenna to achieve a Doppler centroid stability that is necessary for repeat-pass interferometry. This paper presents some of the trade studies for the platform, instrument and the expected science.
Document ID
20060043633
Acquisition Source
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Document Type
Conference Paper
External Source(s)
Authors
Hensley, Scott
Lou, Yunling
Rosen, Paul
Wheeler, Kevin
Zebker, Howard
Madsen, Soren
Miller, Tim
Hoffman, Jim
Farra, Don
Date Acquired
August 23, 2013
Publication Date
September 20, 2003
Meeting Information
Meeting: 2nd AIAA Unmanned-Unlimited System, Technologies and Operating-Aerospace, Land and Sea Conference and Workshop and Exhibit
Location: San Diego, CA
Country: United States
Start Date: September 20, 2003
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
interferometers
synthetic aperture radar (SAR)
unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)

Available Downloads

There are no available downloads for this record.
No Preview Available