TABLE OF CONTENTS This chapter presents a sampling of key algorithms related to the generation and exploitation of fine-resolution synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery. It emphasizes practical
algorithms in common use by the SAR community. Based on function, these algorithms involve image formation, image enhancement, and image exploitation. Image formation transforms collected SAR data into a focused image. Image enhancement operates on the formed image to improve image quality and utility. Image exploitation refers to the extraction and use of information about the imaged scene.
Section 1 introduces the fundamental concepts that enable fine-resolution SAR imaging and reviews the characteristics of collected radar signal data and processed SAR imagery. These attributes determine the need for specific processing functions and the ability of a particular algorithm to perform such functions. Section 2 surveys leading SAR image formation algorithms and discusses the issues associated with their use. Section 3 introduces several enhancement algorithms for improving SAR image quality and utility. Section 4 samples image exploitation topics of current interest in the SAR community.
Radar is an acronym for radio detection and ranging. In its simple form, radar detects the presence of a target by sensing energy that the target reflects back to the radar antenna. It ranges the target by measuring the time interval between transmitting a signal (for instance, in the form of a short pulse) and receiving a return (the backscattered signal) from the target.
