Measured forward-scatter sea clutter at near-zero grazing angle: analysis of spectral and statistical properties

摘要

To develop forward-scatter radar (FSR) systems for use in maritime applications, a fundamental understanding of the operating environment is required. Currently, there is a lack of published experimental FSR sea clutter data at very low (near-zero) grazing angle over the sea. This data is necessary for the development of FSR systems for maritime applications. Therefore to facilitate further investigation, clutter data for such a system has been recorded at frequencies of 7.5 and 24 GHz with static, medium gain antennas for low sea states 1–3 on the Douglas scale. Analysis of forward scatter propagation phenomena is presented, and spectral and statistical analysis of forward-scatter clutter is performed.