A model for calculating the error bounds in the radiometric calibration of a phased array SAR

A model based on a statistical coefficient of a variation model is used to examine the theoretical error bounds on SAR-derived radar scattering coefficient (sigma exp 0) measurements. The model is applied to a simple phased array antenna to explore the model's utility. For a wide range of variances, the model is in good agreement with the exact solution, but with far less computer effort. Other, more complicated, antennas can be analyzed in a straightforward way. The model can be employed as a design tool for digital phased array radar. The importance of monitoring amplitude and phase excitation of a phased array is demonstrated. A method for the internal calibration of the PHARUS system is introduced.