Imaging simulation of complex target active detection and optical cross section studies

Geometrical modeling and hidden facet processing of light for a complex target as well as optical scattering characteristics of surfaces are discussed. Scattering of targets at uniform amplitude parallel beam is analyzed and computed in simulation. Optical cross section (OCS) simulative computation method of random complex targets is proposed. Through adaptive Z buffer method, light hidden facets of a complex target are processed and subtracted from the whole OCS integral. Furthermore, optical scattering characteristics for special grass-like material of space target pleats' surfaces are analyzed. An experimental OCS analysis based on measurements is also discussed. The experimental measuring formula of OCS is given. Imaging simulation and OCS computation of active laser detection for a downsizing space target are studied. The OCS values will change when the target has different postures according to different azimuth and zenith angles. The results of simulative computation and experimental analysis are compared. It is shown that simulation results are almost coherent with experimental analysis results.