Radar cross section measurements in space

Space is an ideal place for radar cross section measurements, in some respects. There are no walls or other background objects to introduce errors in the measurements. Radar calibration with a standard sphere is simplified by the absence of unintended targets on the space range. Large targets are more easily handled in space than on the ground. There is no weight to lift. Target elements do not sag in the weightless environment. There are, however, limitations. As an example, provisions for attitude control are not normally available. Radar cross section measurements of spacecraft and a man in space, by the Shuttle radar, are presented to illustrate the possibilities. Shuttle radar measurements are available in near real time during mission operations, permitting radar cross section computations to be made as the mission is accomplished