Spaceborne SAR System Design Considerations: Minimizing Satellite Size and Mass, System Parameter Trade-Offs, and Optimization

Abstract

The goal of this research is to assess and guide the development of next-generation synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites, optimize their performance, and present the requirements related to the design parameters. In the current era, characterized by the rapid advancement of SAR technologies, the challenge of designing compact and efficient satellites is more relevant than ever. The present research provides a comprehensive analysis of design parameters for microsatellite applications, including altitude, incidence angle, operating frequency, antenna sizing, and transmitting power. The complex relationships between these parameters and their combined impact on SAR system performance and satellite dimensions are demonstrated through various scenarios. Special attention is given to balancing the SAR antenna area and the transmitting power needs, which are primary constraints in SAR microsatellite design. A detailed comparative study is presented, highlighting how each design decision affects the overall functionality and performance. Modern SAR satellites with masses under 150 kg can operate with approximately 1 kW of transmitting power and a 10 m2 SAR antenna area. The present results analyze and validate the key parameters related to these satellites, coping with the challenging trade-offs through optimization. Furthermore, this study aims to guide future innovative spaceborne SAR system design, highlighting the potential of optimization techniques in advancing spaceborne SAR technology.

Keywords

• synthetic aperture radar (SAR)
• microsatellite
• small satellite
• SAR antenna
• SAR system design
• SAR system optimization