Remote sensing using GPS bistatic radar with applications to low earth orbit nanosatellites.

Abstract

This thesis presents the results of analysis and experiments evaluating the potential for using reflected GPS signals as a remote sensing instrument. Using GPS signals in this manner is, in effect, a bistatic radar that utilizes one of the GPS bands (L1, 1575.42MHz) and has many advantages for small satellite applications because it pro- vides a sensor which is passive, has a small foot print and consumes very little power. The reflected GPS signals can provide information about ocean surface conditions and other information about terrestrial land mass. The GPS bistatic radar also has the potential for being a sensor for relative ranging and proximity sensing on orbit. This is particularly useful because it allows measuring ranges to objects or satellites that are not equipped with a GPS receiver (e.g, a dead satellite or passive target), for a variety of missions including satellite servicing and formation operations.