Synchronization of networked staring radar with low phase noise photonic oscillators

Griffiths, Darren ORCID: 0000-0003-3194-439X (2024). Synchronization of networked staring radar with low phase noise photonic oscillators. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Networked radar systems provide benefits in terms of extended coverage, resiliency and improvements to target tracking and classification. The remote sensor nodes provide additional challenges in distributing the local oscillator signal simultaneously to both the transmitter and receiver. This leads to increased requirements for timing synchronization as well as a reliance on stable and accurate oscillators due to the lack of inherent phase noise suppression. The focus of this work is to apply methods to synchronize two static L-band staring radar systems, and is achieved via signal processing methods as well as the use of disciplined oscillator configurations.
The use of digital signal processing techniques for synchronization provides adaptability and simplicity to the radar hardware. Novel methods have been developed with the subject of radar networks operating in an urban environment in mind. The range profile correlation method provides time offset correction for the radar and the multiple reference phase correction (MRPC) method corrects residual phase errors, both improving synchronization accuracy and suppressing phase noise. Both these techniques make use of alternative reference sources in the urban environment.
Alternatively, the use of atomic clocks provides a solution which is not reliant of external reference sources. This work is part of the development towards the quantum enabled network radar and reports on the use of a new Fabry-Perot cavity based, microwave photonic common-mode configuration for supplying disciplined oscillators to each node. This method has been applied to the network, achieving synchronization accuracy of 14 ps over the period of 600 s. Use of this photonics technology can have impacts on synchronization of various networked sensor systems.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):