The Polar Format Imaging Algorithm for Forward-looking Bistatic SAR

A new effective PFA (Polar Format Algorithm) imaging algorithm for forward looking bistatic SAR is presented in this paper, Non-linear interpolation and sampling are adopted during converting polar coordinate to Cartesian coordinate according to the characteristics of space frequency samples in raw data domain. The algorithm preserves the character of conventional PFA of separating 2D interpolation to two 1D interpolations. The processing flow, efficiency and performance of the new algorithm are as same as conventional PFA for mono-static spotlight SAR. The limited conditions to realize forward looking bistatic SAR are also discussed and the algorithm is validated through point target simulations.