Spatial polarization characteristics and scattering matrix measurement of orthogonal polarization binary array radar

Polarimetry is an important trend in the development of modern radar. The technique for measuring polarization scattering property of the target is the key for polarization radar realization, but it faces challenges in engineering. Here, a new theoretical model for target scattering characteristic measurement radar, named orthogonal polarization binary array radar (OPBAR), is proposed. The spatial polarization characteristics of the radar antennas are addressed. A new polarimetric algorithm that needs only one channel is designed. The polarization scattering matrix measurement can be implemented by processing received signal in a short time interval while antenna’s beam mechanically scans the target. Through compactness field microwave dark room experiment, measurments of dynamic broadband polarimetry on OPBAR have been conducted and the validity of research work has been demonstrated. The result is helpful to exploiting the capability of current radar systems and enhancing their information acquiring and processing capacity.