Two-Dimensional Imaging of FMCW Ice Sounding Radar Data via the Modified Frequency Scaling Algorithm

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a novel processing algorithm for FMCW ice-sounding radar which addresses the along-track focusing of internal reflecting horizons. It is a modified frequency scaling algorithm that can handle the two-layer medium imaging model as well as the Doppler impact of the motion within the sweep in a nadir-looking radar. The proposed algorithm’s comprehensive derivation and implementation processes are described. In the range-Doppler domain, a really effective formulation for radar signals is also presented, which takes into account refraction effects and electromagnetic wave propagation velocity changes at the interface of two different mediums. Point target simulations are carried out to demonstrate the algorithm’s performance. The proposed method is also tested on the real data acquired by the Shallow-Layers-Detection Ice Sounding Radar (SLDISR). The result shows the applicability of the proposed method for imaging the ice sheet.