Feasibility of Air Target Detection Using GPS as a Bistatic Radar

E. P. Glennon, A. G. Dempster, C. Rizos

SigNav Pty Ltd, Unit 2, 59 Tennant St, Fyshwick, ACT 2609, Australia.
University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.

DOI:                 

Abstract

The feasibility of using GPS as a bistatic radar illuminator for the purposes of air target detection is examined. The power budget analysis is first performed assuming the use of a single satellite, but is followed by a discussion of the expected improvements when multiple satellites are employed. The analysis includes the effect of GPS signal strength dynamic range, also known as the ‘near-far’ problem. The difference between the radar cross-section (RCS) of a typical air target and groundbased clutter reflections is discussed, followed by an estimation of the effect of ground clutter on the operation of such a system.

Keywords

Bistatic radar, Global Positioning System, radar detection

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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