Radar Network Synchronization and Imaging using Semiconductor Laser System

The monostatic radar configuration has limited capabilities of detecting targets with low radar cross-sections. This configuration is also vulnerable to intentional interference. In contrast, a radar network where multiple radar transceivers (nodes) are placed strategically can yield superior detection. This radar network can also extract additional information about the target, such as its size and shape. However, synchronizing the nodes in the radar network poses a significant challenge. In this work, we utilize the self-synchronization property of chaos and propose that the semiconductor chaotic laser system can be used to synchronize all the nodes in the radar network. Through preliminary investigation, we show that the cross-correlation between the transmitter and synchronized radar node is of high quality with the main lobe width equivalent to a fraction of 1 nanosecond. Consequently, the range resolution of a few centimeters is achievable.Results of correlational analysis of our synchronized radar network are also shown. This analysis yielded sharp correlation peaks indicating the presence of multiple targets in close proximity.