Polar format algorithm with phase correction for bistatic SAR

Bistatic radars are well known for their distinct advantages like spatial diversity and stealthness that monostatic radars cannot provide. Recently there is an increased interest in Bistatic Synthetic Aperture Radars.; Polar Format Algorithm (PFA) is a fast and very effective algorithm for Bistatic SAR imaging.; In this dissertation work, we have extended Polar format algorithm for Bistatic airborne SAR system. A generalized system model for Bistatic SAR data collection is introduced. One of the problems we encounter in reality is the non-linear flight path during SAR data collection. In our model we have explicitly considered these errors. From the received data, we first form the image by Polar Format algorithm. We then find the phase error due to the approximation used in PFA. Motion compensation for non-linear flight path is usually made using the Global Positioning System (GPS) data. We have shown that the approximation errors in PFA can be combined with motion errors and can be corrected together. Hence without any additional computations, the resultant image is free from phase errors due to PFA. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)...