Photonics-based super-resolution phased array radar detection applying two-dimensional multiple signal classification (2D-MUSIC)

Abstract

The emerging photonics-based radar breaks the bandwidth limitations of traditional radar, making it possible to achieve a high range resolution. While, the angular resolution of a photonics-based radar is still limited by the size of its equivalent aperture. To achieve both high range and angular resolution, we propose a super-resolution radar detection method that is achieved by a photonics-based phased array radar applying two-dimensional multiple signal classification (2D-MUSIC) algorithm. The broad bandwidth enabled by the photonics-based system can ensure a high range resolution, and the 2D-MUSIC method helps to achieve a high angular resolution. Feasibility of the proposed method is experimentally verified through a photonics-based 1×4 phased array radar with a bandwidth of 4 GHz (22-26 GHz). With the capability for highly precise target detection in both range and angular direction, the proposed scheme has great potential in future radar applications.