Downward looking 3D SAR based on uniform virtual phase centre restricted symmetrical distributed thinned array

In this paper, we analyse the Hankel matrix format MIMO channel model of thinned linear array. Then we give a uniform virtual phase centre restricted symmetrical distributed thinned array designing method. Based on the designed thinned array and 3D SAR imaging geometry, the equivalent phase error and motion compensation is discussed. At last we give a downward looking 3D SAR imaging algorithm based on the designed thinned array. Numerical simulation using this imaging algorithm is given and analysed.