A Comparison of Back-Projection and Range Migration Algorithms for Ultra-Wideband SAR Imaging

Ultra-wideband waveform and large integration angle benefit the synthetic aperture radar (SAR) with very high range and azimuth resolutions. However, at the same time, more new complexities and challenges are brought to the conventional SAR imaging algorithms. The back-projection algorithm and range migration algorithm are two newly developed algorithms that can be used in ultra-wideband SAR imaging. The back-projection algorithm originates from the medical imaging reconstruction technique called computer-aided tomography whereas the range migration algorithm is derived from seismic migration techniques. In the application to SAR imaging, the performance comparison is made in this paper based on theoretical analysis, simulation and experimental data. The analysis and processing results show that both algorithms are suitable for ultra-wideband SAR imaging and the theoretical resolution performances can be achieved. In addition, some practical issues of implementation and performance difference about these two algorithms are addressed as well