Bistatic scattering reflection asymmetry, polarization reversal asymmetry, and polarization reversal reflection symmetry

Circularly polarized bistatic scattering from plane-symmetric targets with otherwise arbitrary electrical properties exhibits reflection asymmetries, polarization reversal asymmetries, and polarization reversal reflection symmetries which are useful for bistatic radar data interpretation. Familiarity with these bistatic scattering polarization properties will also facilitate the interpretation of depolarization and beam displacement phenomena in off-set reflector antenna characteristics. In addition, the symmetries can he used to reduce the time and expense in obtaining data from bistatic scattering range measurements, offset reflector antenna measurements, and theoretical or computer calculations. The reflection asymmetry, polarization reversal asymmetry, and polarization reversal reflection symmetry relations are derived. The symmetry relations are then combined with the principle of electromagnetic reciprocity to determine the minimum number of measurements needed to characterize target scattering.