Abstract:

This paper investigates LHCP (left-hand circularly-polarized) antenna orientation strategy for bistatic radar, configured of GPS (Global Positioning System) and receiver on-board LEO (Low Earth Orbit) spacecraft, for oceanographic remote sensing. The relationship between the distribution of specular points and LEO height is analyzed. The influences of the GPS elevations on the shape of iso-delay ellipses, iso-doppler hyperbola and other characteristics of glistening zone are also discussed. A high gain LHCP antenna orientation strategy is proposed, considering these factors as follows: the interest sea area location, LHCP antenna beam area, the orbit characteristic of LEO satellite and the GPS elevation distribution at specular points. According to the orbit of our possible LEO satellite in the potential bistatic radar, we present an optimal combination of LHCP antenna beam solid angle and pointing orientation. The simulation of this strategy indicates good results in oceanographic remote sensing. It can be an important reference for LHCP antenna design of the future bisatic radar.

Key words: bistatic radar, LHCP antenna orientation, specular point, glistening zone