Radar target scattering matrix measurement through orthogonal signals

A method recently proposed for the simultaneous measurement of all four elements of the target scattering matrix in polarimetric radars is considered and analysed. The method makes use of pulse signal coding and is theoretically based on the simultaneous independent transmission of two orthogonal signals on two orthogonally polarised channels feeding the same antenna. The elements of the target scattering matrix are retrieved by correlating the received signal on each orthogonally polarised channel with both the transmitted waveforms. The potential advantages offered by this measurement method are discussed, with particular reference to the accuracy of the scattering matrix measurement in the presence of point targets. Related radar system implications and improvements are discussed, and applications of different types of transmission waveforms are considered