This paper proposes an approach to dynamic calibration of phased arrays using signals of opportunity. Two particular types of signals considered are returns from targets seen by the radar and the radiation of the sun. The latter, whilst weaker than many target returns, is able to correct for bias errors in the array pointig direction. The likely practical errors in an in-service array are considered and it is shown that useful calibration of the pattern can be obtained without direct access to the signals from each element. This means that the technique could be applied retrospectively to existing arrays. The ability to calibrate the array dynamically means that the requirements on the stabilities of arrays may be relaxed, potentially reducing their cost and allowing them to be used in a wider range of applications. The techniques for bias removal can also be applied to mechanically-scanned radars when high absolute accuracy is required for networked operations.
Calibration of active arrays for radars with signals opportunity
Kalibrieren aktiver Array-Antennen für Radarsysteme, basierend auf im Umfeld vorhandenen terrestrischen und kosmischen Mikrowellensignalen
2008
10 Seiten, 12 Bilder, 13 Quellen
Article (Journal)
English
Reconfigurable arrays for airborne radars
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