A statistical model for the error bounds of an active phased array antenna for SAR applications

A model for the theoretical error bounds for the radiometric calibration of SAR imagery is described. The model is then applied utilizing the radar system parameters that will be used in the project PHARUS (Phased Array Universal SAR), a Dutch polarimetric airborne C -band universal SAR, which is currently under construction. An error model for the phased array antenna pattern is presented. This model was applied to a 16×8 phased array antenna to determine the influence of errors in the T/R modules and angle variations of the beam direction. For a wide range of variances the model is in good agreement with the exact solution, but with far less computer effort. Other, more complicated, antennas can be analyzed in a straightforward way. The model can be used as a design tool for digital phased array radar