Micro-Doppler Target Scattering

Micro-Doppler radar has proven to be a valuable tool in which micro-motions are encoded into detailed target signatures that greatly aid identification. Models of such targets often have elaborate motion representations but only use a simple point scatterer representation to compute received echo strength. Here, using simulations, we examine micro-Doppler target signatures of simple combinations of point scatters occupying a given resolution cell. Results show that more complex and subtle behaviors occur than might be evident from a cursory analysis. Further, we show, as the aspect angle of the target changes, so too does the form of scattered signal. Together these two characteristics of micro-Doppler signatures provide additional information about targets and scenarios that could further aid identification.