Development of a generic SAR processor in The Netherlands

A generic SAR processor (GSP) is being developed that can process data from air- and spaceborne SAR systems, and runs on a general purpose workstation. Genericity is achieved by means of a modular and easily extendible architecture, and by a range of processor adjustment parameters. Additional input conversion modules can be added for additional SAR systems. Special attention in the paper is paid to airborne SAR motion compensation, and its implementation in this flexible SAR processing environment. An extended hybrid correlation algorithm is at the core of the processor, which makes it suitable for airborne- and satellite geometries. The GSP also provides control over various speed/accuracy trade-offs, so that it can be optimally adjusted for particular SAR processing applications. Furthermore, the processor includes facilities for polarimetric calibration and image quality assessment. A carefully designed man-machine interface (MMI) supports the user in accessing all GSP functions, including visualization of radar- and auxiliary data. The MMI also reduces the risk of erroneous actions and provides on-line help, making the system robust, and user-friendly.