Reduction of bistatic scattering matrix measurements for inversely symmetric radar targets

Experimental and/or theoretical evaluations of the bistatic scattering matrix can be greatly simplified if the radar target is known to possess inversion symmetry. The inversion symmetry relations between the elements of the matrix are introduced here based upon simple geometrical agruments. These relations are subsequently combined with the principle of electromagnetic reciprocity. The results are used to determine the least number of measurements needed to completely specify bistatic scattering from objects with inversion symmetry. If the target is also a body of revolution, even a greater reduction in the number of bistatic measurements required to completely characterize the object is possible. This is proven utilizing the principle of polarization reversal reflection symmetry.