The Ohio State University compact radar cross-section measurement range

The present investigation is concerned with the development and performance of a compact radar cross-section measurement range for obtaining backscattered signatures and patterns on targets up to 1.3 m in extent, and at frequencies from 1 to 100 GHz. The system represents a further development of a prior far-field system for measuring smaller targets. The objective for the development was a general purpose but state-of-the-art range which could obtain the complex radar signature versus polarization, frequency, and target look angle for both noncooperative target recognition studies and radar cross-section control studies. Attention is given to the measurement system architecture, system control algorithms and calibration procedures, system performance, and future improvements.