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synthetic aperture radar

radar technology
Also known as: SAR

Quick Summary

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is a type of radar technology that uses a moving vehicle, like an aircraft or spacecraft, to create images of stationary objects or planetary surfaces. It operates by transmitting electromagnetic energy and analyzing the reflected signals to determine a target's location and characteristics.12

SAR is distinguished by its ability to achieve high resolution, independent of range, which is an advantage over optical imaging. This allows SAR systems to map the Earth's surface with resolutions of a few meters, providing details about terrain and surface features. SAR can function through clouds and other atmospheric conditions that would hinder optical or infrared sensors. The resolution of a SAR image is based on Doppler frequency and range resolution. If the radar is stationary and the target is moving, high resolution can also be achieved; this is known as inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR). Dual-frequency SAR, utilizing L-band and S-band microwave frequencies, is used for observing Earth's surface.13

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