This proposal is for the Phase II SBIR contract to experimentally verify a focused synthetic rectangular array technique for microwave detection and imaging of mines proposed by Graham Research Corporation. The results of the Phase I contract have conclusively demonstrated that surface reflections are significantly reduced, and subsurface target detection enhanced. The Phase I experiments have demonstrated feasibility of the concept of a focused rectangular synthetic array using a simplified crossed line array geometry . The goal of the Phase II program will be to design, fabricate, and test an experimental rectangular synthetic array for experimental verification and simulation of the proposed method. The Phase II experiments will determine the perforaance, capabilities and liaitations of the proposed system for various soil and target conditions. System parameters will be determined such as resolution, attenuation, reduction of surface reflections, and effects of refraction due to dielectric constant and conductivity of the soil. The results of the experimental program will allow an improved system design concept to be developed. This will provide the basis for an advanced development model of the system in Phase III.
