Space-based sub-terahertz Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar (ISAR) image formation and orbital assessment for monitoring of geostationary assets

The Pervasive Sensing group at the University of Birmingham is exploring in-orbit conditional monitoring of satellites using inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) as a technique for dedicated observation of high-value space-based assets. In this work, the feasibility of geostationary orbit (GEO) observation by optimising monitoring satellite orbital parameters for sub-THz ISAR data acquisition has been assessed. A proprietary propagation simulator, Gofod, has been used to devise the scenarios for which launch conditions, stability, periodicity and time of dwell on the target will deliver the best observation of key observed satellite features. Simulation results have been validated with commercial software.