RCS imaging measurement obtained by scanning parallel electromagnetic wave Beam using dielectric lens antenna

RCS (radar cross section) imaging measurement was obtained by (1) scanning parallel electromagnetic wave beam using a dielectric lens antenna, (2) integrating the same phase signal by comparing the returning signals only relating to the reference signal, and (3) calculating RCS by comparing with a standard target. Using this imaging method, RCS measurements of an airplane with a 1.5 m wing span covered with aluminum film at 24 GHz was found to be within 5 dB of conventional far-field measurements. The features of the new method are as follows. (1) The measurement range is wide, between 2 m and 30 m. This measurement system can thus be used outside without an anechoic chamber. (2) Arrangement of the system is easy, particularly for use with a real airplane and other vehicles, owing to its compact size. (3) Partial RCS visualization is useful for improving areas with strong reflection in the developmental stages of airplane and other vehicle.