Phase behavior of radar cross-sections. Theoretical and experimental results

The radar cross section (RCS) of any object is a complex quantity that possesses both an amplitude and a phase. While the former is fairly widely documented in the literature, the latter is conspicuous by its almost total absence. An attempt is made to introduce some of the distinguishing characteristics of the phase, the factors that govern its behaviour and its utility in recognizing targets. Comparisons between theory and practice are presented.<>