Multi-channel synthetic aperture radar in Europe

After decades of success for the classical single-channel SAR operating in various frequency bands, the next generation spaceborne SAR takes shape through the use of multiple (simultaneous) channels for information generation. Multiple azimuth phase centres offer enhanced capabilities and significant performance improvements with respect to single channel SARs. For instance the classical conflict between swath width and resolution can be overcome, allowing wide-swath systems providing high resolution to become reality. Improvements in imaging capability by factors of 5 to 10 are realistic. In addition multiple channels can be exploited as well for single pass interferometric applications which open new classes of environmental and surveillance applications of SAR systems. The paper gives an overview of ongoing developments funded by the European Space Agency (ESA) in the field of next generation multi-channel spaceborne missions. National programs are not presented.