Range-time intensity plot of averaged sea clutter at low grazing angle
Time history of sea clutter Doppler spectrum
Comparison of the Georgia Institute of Technology empirical model (dotted) with Igence’s physical model
An authoritative account of the current understanding of radar sea clutter published by the Track Record
Over the past 20 years we have played a key role in the development of the modern understanding of sea clutter culminating in the compound K-distribution model.
Capability
Fundamental research into sea surface scattering has lead to a practical capability for the design of detection systems and the evaluation of their performance. This is complemented by a suite of statistical modelling and simulation tools that have contributed to many maritime radar programmes including:
- Nimrod MRA4
- Sea Spray
- Merlin
Low Grazing Angle Scattering
Historically this has been an enigma because the average radar cross section is much higher than expected, the statistics are non-Gaussian and ‘spikes’ produce unwanted false alarms in radar systems.
Research has tended to concentrate on describing these effects. However, in recent years progress has been made in understanding them by the identification of the dominant scattering mechanisms from the ocean surface at low grazing angles.
A physical model incorporating these effects has been developed which agrees with a detailed empirical model based entirely on observation. This understanding is being exploited to develop improved radar detection algorithms.