A simplified calibration technique for polarimetric radars

Polarimetric imaging radars require accurate calibration of channel imbalance and cross-talk to provide meaningful data. Current calibration techniques, which depend on ground-based reflectors or active radar transceivers within a scene, are labor intensive and sensitive to target orientation. This paper presents a new technique for performing calibration that simplifies the calibration process and minimizes the use of ground-based calibration targets. The technique is applicable to both airborne and spaceborne imaging radar systems