Analysis of Multi-static Inverse Synthetic Aperture Sonar Performance in Underwater Target Imaging

For acoustic imaging of underwater moving target, multi-static inverse synthetic aperture sonar idea can be used. Although, proper imaging algorithm has been derived but related parameters have not been discussed. In this paper, after reviewing multi-static inverse synthetic aperture sonar idea and relevant imaging algorithm, effective factors on underwater imaging of moving target such as target dimensions, range, depth and movement, sonar depth and specifications and underwater acoustic channel characteristics are analyzed and practical imaging limitations are derived for the first time. Effects of mentioned factors on target image are simulated and accuracy of analysis is validated.