Implementation of a ZNA-based ISAR imaging system for the identification of electromagnetic scattering centers

An Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar (ISAR) simulation and benchtop experimental setup was developed to enable the imaging and characterization of electromagnetic scattering centers from rotating targets. The two-dimensional, small-angle, small-bandwidth ISAR algorithm was implemented in Matlab and Python environments for the processing of simulated and experimental data. CST Studio's monostatic radar solver was then used to verify the accuracy and interpretability of the ISAR imaging system and to guide the collection of backscattered electric field measurements. Experimental measurements were collected utilizing a ZNA vector network analyzer in a quasi-monostatic scattering configuration, with tests performed in compact, indoor environments. The finalized ISAR benchtop system and post-processing workflow produced multiple exterior profile views of test targets. The dominant scattering centers were also identified for a representative test target, with its effective reflective area estimated for select look angles. For more information regarding Kaitlyn Butler's thesis, please contact the Director for Missouri Institute for Defense and Energy, Dr. Travis Fields, at fieldstd@umkc.edu.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S. (Master of Science)

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Electromagnetics

Grantor

University of Missouri--Kansas City

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Butler, Kaitlyn Isabelle

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Fields, Travis

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10355/110341

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:mospace.umsystem.edu:10355/110341