SUMATRA, a W-band SAR for UAV application

Based upon most recent advances in millimeterwave technology, especially monolithic integrated low noise or medium power HEMT amplifiers and an integrated receiver containing an LNA, Mixer and IF Amplifier, a miniaturized experimental radar at 94 GHz was designed with the aim to be used on board of a remotely piloted model aircraft. This highly advanced front-end technique was combined with of-the-shelf model aircraft hardware and miniaturized GPS and data transmission equipment which is readily available. Goal of the project is to demonstrate, that using modern 94-GHz front-end technique combined with achievable back-end components it is possible to set up a versatile SAR system usable for a wide range of remote sensing applications at medium range. The paper describes the current state of the research project SUMATRA-94 and gives some perspectives for future applications.