Performance analysis of a novel time-domain real-time SAR processor

We test the performance of a new phase-preserving time-domain signum coded SAR processor (SCSP) aimed at real time operations. Raw signal interferomet ric pairs relevant to the Shuttle Radar Topography X-band Mission are simul ated. A full result comparison between SCSP and conventional interferometri c products is presented by using simulated canonical and real scenarios. Th e simulated canonical scene consists of a pyramid and three corner reflecto rs. The simulated real scene refers to the Mt Etna area in Sicily, Italy. R aw data are simulated both for ascending and descending orbits. Results sho w that SCSP combined with an iterative phase unwrapping algorithm can gener ate digital elevation models with good accuracy in spite of the higher phas e noise level.