Detection Probabilities for Log-Normally Distributed Signals

The amplitude and power of a large family of radio signals are observed to have log-normal probability density functions. Among these are signals propagated through random inhomogeneous media, a notable example being low frequency atmospheric radio noise. Of greater importance are certain radar targets that have been observed to have essentially log-normal density functions. Both ships and space vehicles may fall into this category. Curves of probability of detection vs. signal-to-noise ratio for the case of log-normal signals in Gaussian noise have been computed and are presented in this paper. The curves apply for square-law detection with varying degrees of postdetection linear integration. Both fully correlated and completely uncorrelated fluctuating signals are considered. It is shown that for log-normal signal distributions having large variances, the probability of detection differs significantly from that obtained using curves based on an assumed Rayleigh signal distribution.     

Bistatic Synthetic-Aperture Radar Imaging of Rotating Objects

The imaging properties of a focused radar aperture synthesized by object rotation are considered. The ring-shaped aperture synthesized by the object rotation can provide high-resolution two-dimensional imaging using only monochromatic irradiation. The case of monochromatic irradiation is extended to the polychromatic case and to equivalent bistatic geometries. These techniques offer practical methods for radar imaging of rotating objects with scattering centers visible over large angular extents.