Analysis of a bistatic Radar Cross Section measurement capability for the Boris Vian anechoic chamber

Abstract

This paper examined the feasibility of performing bistatic Radar Cross Section (RCS) measurements in the Boris Vian anechoic chamber. To test this anechoic chamber, a small PEC circular cylinder is selected as a target. The capability to measure the bistatic RCS of a target versus frequency and versus target azimuth angle is established. Accurate bistatic RCS measurements are obtained using a Vector Network Analyzer and using background subtraction, bistatic calibration, and software range gating. A method to establish the chamber directivity is proposed. The accuracy of the measurement is estimated and a new value of the RCS sensibility is given as a function of the value of the chamber directivity.