Coherent dual-band radar system based on a unique antenna and a photonics-based transceiver

This study reports the development of a coherent dual-band radar system consisting of a frequency selective surface (FSS)-based dual-band focal-point/Cassegrain parabolic antenna and a single photonics-based transceiver. The proposed antenna enables to simultaneously operate in the S and X bands due to the use of an FSS-based sub-reflector. Numerical and experimental results of the antenna reflection coefficient, radiation pattern and gain have been shown in excellent agreement for both frequency bands. Furthermore, the proposed dual-band antenna has been applied in conjunction with a photonics-based coherent dual-band radio-frequency transceiver operating in the same bands. The authors’ innovative radar system has been properly validated by the detection and ranging of a commercial aircraft and a helicopter on a building roof, using S and X bands concurrently.