Target Polarization

Description

This capability refers to the modeling of how a target's scattering properties interact with the polarization of the incoming radar wave (e.g., vertical, horizontal, circular) and how the scattered wave's polarization might change.

Currently, this functionality is completely disabled in FERS. Evidence of previous attempts or plans for this feature exists in the codebase (PsMatrix class, commented-out members _psm, getPolarization, setPolarization within the Target class), but it is not active or usable.

Assumptions

• N/A (Functionality is not implemented).

Limitations

• Functionality Missing: The simulator cannot model any effects related to radar wave polarization interacting with targets. This includes:
  • Targets altering the polarization of the reflected wave.
  • Differences in received signal strength based on matching (or mismatching) antenna and target polarization characteristics.
  • Simulation of polarimetric radar systems.

Related Components

• target.h: Contains commented-out code related to polarization (_psm member, getPolarization/setPolarization methods within the Target class).
• PsMatrix class (likely defined but unused or commented out).

Validation Status

• Needs Verification: N/A (Functionality needs implementation first, not verification).
• Key Areas for Validation: If implemented in the future, validation would need to cover:
  • Correct application of polarization scattering matrices (e.g., Sinclair matrix).
  • Interaction with antenna polarization models (if implemented).
  • Consistency with theoretical polarimetric radar principles.
• Priority: Low (As the feature is currently non-existent). Priority would change if implementation becomes a project goal.