MIMO SBR via Code Division Multiplexing for Track While Simultaneous Search

This article outlines the archetype of a novel SpaceBorne Radar (SBR) in the Ka-band for space situational awareness (SSA) based on a code-division multiplexing (CDM) multiple-input–multiple-output (MIMO) payload transceiver. Considering small-size hypervelocity debris, the functional architecture of the fully polarimetric SBR is described, including key comparisons with previous works based on single-input–multiple-output (SIMO) configurations. SBR operations are clarified via timing hierarchies in surveillance mode, the complex data hypercube structure, and the low pulse repetition frequency (L-PRF) range and range rate search (RRRS) entailing a track while simultaneous search (TWSS) contacts collection strategy. Ancillary details on the SBR functional architecture provide paramount insights to ponder critical MIMO aspects and pave the way for key research and development efforts. Finally, numerical results provide a proof of concept for the signal processor upstream the constant false alarm rate-like (CFAR-like) detection block.