Radar signal processor utilizing a multi-channel optical correlator

摘要

A real-time radar processor utilizing a coherent optical system for providing target fine range and Doppler/azimuth angle data with increased signal-to-noise and signal-to-clutter ratios. Radar signals detected by a linear phased array or successive echo signals detected by the receiver are arranged in a 2-D input format for parallel processing in a multi-channel 1-D optical correlator. Target range and azimuth angle reference data may be stored in a matched spatial filter hologram or recorded in a 2-D format similar to that of the detected radar signals according to which of three different correlation configurations are employed in the optical system. The coordinates of the correlation peak in the output plane of the correlator are proportional to the target's fine range and Doppler/azimuth angle, depending upon the type of radar signals being processed.