Target detection using GPS signals of opportunity

We investigate the capability of GPS signals of opportunity to detect and localize targets on the sea surface. The proposed approach to target detection is new, and stems from the advantages offered by GPS-Reflectometry (GPS-R) in terms of spatial and temporal sampling, and low cost/low power technology, extending the range of applications of GPS-R beyond remote sensing. Here the exploitation of GPS signals backscattered from a target is proposed, to enhance the target return with respect to the sea clutter. A link budget is presented, showing that the target return is stronger than the background sea clutter when certain conditions are verified. The findings agree with the only empirical measurement found in literature, where a strong return from a target was fortuitously registered during an airborne campaign. This study provides a first proof-of-concept of GPS-based target detection, highlighting all the potentials of this innovative approach.