Optimization of the Array Element Layout for a Rotating Imaging Interferometer

In this paper, after a brief review on the working principles of synthetic aperture radiometers exploiting interferometry and mechanical rotation of the antenna, analytical expressions are provided which allow to easily compute the receiving performance of the interferometer starting from given locations of its sensors. Then, an innovative and general approach is developed and discussed for the optimal synthesis of the locations of the array sensors in order to fulfill requirements of crucial interest. Moreover, an innovative approach is also developed for the synthesis of the optimal weighting of the different collected signals. Finally, the performances of the developed synthesis approaches are discussed with reference to the GEO Atmospheric Sounder (GAS) array instrument.