Near Field Imaging for RF Scattering Analysis

We present a method for computing a fully focused image that includes radiative near field effects. These effects can be important when imaging targets with RF data under geometrical conditions in which the curvature of the electromagnetic wavefront cannot be ignored. We have found the technique to be useful for identifying scattering sources on complex targets, and for comparing simulated radar signatures with measured data. We believe the method can also serve to provide benchmarks for comparison with tactical imaging algorithms that may rely on approximations to achieve real time performance.