High-bandwidth 220 GHz experimental radar

Abstract

An experimental radar at 220 GHz has been developed, which is capable of delivering an instantaneous bandwidth of 8000 MHz. The solid-state radar uses an FM-CW waveform. The development is based on experience with a 94 GHz broadband measurement radar. The data undergo an ISAR imaging process to derive high-resolution scattering centre distributions for targets measured in tower/turntable configuration. High-resolution processing algorithms have been developed, which result in scattering centre distributions with a resolution better than 2 cm at ranges of and exceeding 200 m. The radar will be used for investigations on target signatures of small objects for stand-off detection of concealed weapons and other threat material.