Multichannel optical correlator for radar signal processing

Abstract

A multichannel coherent optical processor for radar signals is described in which pulse compression is achieved by matched spatial filtering. The optical system can be used for phased array, linear frequency modulated pulse burst, or other radar systems. However, only its application to linear phased array signal processing is discussed in depth. From the output optical pattern, one can obtain data on the target's fine range and azimuth (for a phased array) or fine range and Doppler (for a pulse burst radar) etc.