Millimeter-wave imaging of dielectric objects using first order scattering models

For the reconstruction of scattering centers using the Synthetic Aperture Radar principle the radiating reflector model [1] is assumed. This means that a scattering object can be described by a number of discrete scattering centers. For the case of a penetrable object the assumption is not necessarily fulfilled. A comparison of simple metallic and dielectric bodies using a numerical field simulator to generate the scattered field of them can help to point out the different scattering behaviour and the consequences for the applied reconstruction techniques. Furthermore a validation of these observations with a MMW- sensor measuring objects of different permittivities is shown.