BISTAT is a computer program for use in aiming a spaceborne bistatic-radar transmitting antenna at a remote planet that has an atmosphere, such that after refraction by the atmosphere and reflection from the surface of the planet, the radar signal travels toward a receiver on Earth. BISTAT includes an algorithm that neglects atmospheric refraction and calculates a specular reflection point for a spacecraft at a given location. The specular-reflection point is then used as an initial guess for a modified limb-track algorithm that takes atmospheric refraction into account. The output of BISTAT for all spacecraft positions of interest constitutes a pointing profile; the output data are in the form of an inertial-vector file and a Doppler-residual file. The inertial-vector file is used to command the attitude of the spacecraft; the Doppler residual file is used to determine a downlink frequency file for the receiver.
This program was written by Nicole Rappaport of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Software category. This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-41518.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Computing for Aiming a Spaceborne Bistatic-Radar Transmitter
(reference NPO-41518) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
Don't have an account?
Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) concerning a software application titled "BISTAT," associated with NTR Number 41518. This software is designed for computing the aiming of a spaceborne bistatic-radar transmitter, which is a significant advancement in aerospace technology.
Bistatic radar systems utilize separate locations for the transmitter and receiver, allowing for enhanced detection capabilities and improved imaging of targets. The software application aims to optimize the aiming process of such radar systems, which can have various applications in scientific research, military operations, and commercial ventures.
The Technical Support Package is part of NASA's Commercial Technology Program, which seeks to disseminate the results of aerospace-related developments that have broader technological, scientific, or commercial implications. This initiative underscores NASA's commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration with the private sector and other organizations.
The document also provides information on how to access further assistance and resources related to the software and its applications. It mentions the NASA Scientific and Technical Information (STI) Program Office, which offers a wealth of publications and resources for those interested in aerospace research and technology. The STI Program Office can be contacted through their website or directly via phone or email for inquiries.
Additionally, the document includes a disclaimer stating that the United States Government and its representatives do not assume liability for the use of the information contained within the document. It clarifies that any mention of trade names or manufacturers is for identification purposes only and does not imply official endorsement by NASA.
Overall, this Technical Support Package serves as a valuable resource for understanding the capabilities and applications of the BISTAT software in the context of spaceborne bistatic radar technology. It highlights NASA's ongoing efforts to promote technological advancements and facilitate partnerships that can lead to innovative solutions in various fields.
