First Results and Status of the PHARUS Phased Array Airborne SAR

Abstract

PHARUS is an airborne fully polarimetric C band SAR. It uses a compact phased array antenna with electronic beam steering. Its design provides for a flexible and robust system concept, suited for operational use on small aircraft. PHARUS was developed in The Netherlands to cater for both the military and civil markets. Its development was initiated in 1987 and has now resulted in completion of the system, which made its maiden flight in September 1995. In the paper, the particulars of PHARUS will be discussed, with special attention to the antenna, followed by the SAR processing, use of the system, its history and status, and foreseen future developments