MMIC based MMW radiometers for remote sensing

This paper presents an overview of MMIC based MMW radiometers for remote sensing developed over the past few years. Advances in MMW GaAs and InP MMIC technology have made it possible to use these circuits for very low noise radiometers without compromising performance. The resulting systems are smaller, lighter, and have lower power. The primary application of these systems has been satellite based Earth remote sensing but systems are under development for space-based radio astronomy and PMMW imaging for low visibility autonomous aircraft landing. The requirements of various remote sensing systems are reviewed along with the benefits resulting from MMIC technology insertion.