Bistatic Synthetic Aperture Radar for Deep Space Remote Sensing

Abstract

This dissertation's goal is to study the possibility of imaging an asteroid's shape and its interior using a double orbiter bistatic radar configuration. Ground observations provide precious information about asteroids. However, they cannot determine accurately the shape and composition of such extra terrestrial objects. Density and internal structure are naturally related with the determination of electrical properties of such an object. A dual orbiter configuration, capable of measuring the previously mentioned asteroid properties is proposed. Synthetic aperture radar, in conjunction with ground penetrating techniques, allow the association between the object's shape and its electrical properties. Elevation information is obtained through the measurement diversity provided by the bistatic configuration.