Second-Generation Ka-Band UAV SAR System

In 2003, the first generation of the EADS SAR sensor system MISAR was introduced. MISAR is a highly miniaturised Ka-band FMCW SAR sensor for small UAVs with a payload allowance of less than 5 kg. With this sensor, the very first flight-test of a SAR system onboard a mini-UAV was conducted and high-quality imaging from such small platforms could successfully be demonstrated. Numerous flight tests followed and the experience obtained in these experiments lead to the development of the second-generation MISAR. The main improvements in the fields of image processing, MTI processing and ground segment MMI are described in this paper. Further, results of recent flight tests with the new sensor generation are presented.