Millimeter-wave imaging of dielectric objects using first order scattering models

For the reconstruction of scattering centers using the synthetic aperture radar principle the radiating reflector model is assumed. This means that a scattering object can be described by a number of discrete scattering centers. For the case of a penetrable object the assumption is not necessarily fulfilled. A comparison of simple metallic and dielectric bodies using a numerical field simulator to generate the scattered field of them can help to point out the different scattering behaviour and the consequences for the applied reconstruction techniques. Furthermore a validation of these observations with a MMW-sensor measuring objects of different permittivities is shown.