Basic Synthetic Aperture Radar

This course is suitable for data scientists, geographical information systems (GIS) specialists, public servants, meteorologists, and business development managers who are interested in exploring how emerging satellite technologies such as SAR could be utilized to offer new insights relevant to their domain. This course is also suitable for recent graduates in related areas (e.g. astrophysics) who wish to adapt their knowledge to SAR.

On completion of this module, you will:

• Have a good understanding of basic radar and signal processing principles and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imaging, acquisition geometry, design requirements and imaging modes. 
• Be familiar with the basic SAR focusing algorithms. 
• Be aware of the development of SAR technology and its applications from both scientific and commercial points of view.
• Have processed simulated and real SAR signals and extracted information from SAR images

• Radar fundamentals: working principles, radar equation, resolutions, waveforms, review of cross correlation, matched filter, bulk compression, coherent processing, Doppler principle. 
• SAR principles: operating principles of SAR, synthetic aperture concept, geometry of acquisition, Noise Equivalent Sigma Zero and derivation, imaging modes, range migration, resolutions in range and cross range, received SAR signal model. 
• SAR Processing: imaging algorithms, time-domain processing, frequency domain processing, multi-look strategies. 
• SAR in practice: Overview of past, existing and future scientific and commercial SAR missions, spatial/temporal resolutions, carrier frequency characteristics, and imaging modes. 
• Advanced SAR modes and applications.

Learners familiar with GIS can provide more comprehensive solutions to complex spatial problems and contribute to more informed decision-making by incorporating SAR. SAR data can be integrated with other satellite imagery or IoT sensors, to extract valuable insights through data analytics and solve real-world problems.
Specialisation in this topic will broaden the set of analysis tools available to those with a range of roles, for example, in planning, sustainability, meteorology or data analytics, and those who wish to move from a physics or astrophysics background to a more applied area. 

This module will consist primarily of lectures and hands-on computer labs with resources made available through the UCD online learning platform (Brightspace). As a UCD student, you will have full access to the library. This is a 2.5 ECTS module and involves approximately 50-60 hours of learner effort.

A 2.1 honours or international equivalent in a primary degree (NFQ Level 8) in any area of Physics or Engineering is normally required. In certain cases, alternative qualifications may be accepted, depending on the individual's background, relevant experience and availability of places. Applicants should also have a basic level of programming skills, preferably in Python.

For non-native speakers, an English language requirement must be met via an IELTS score of 6.5, unless the primary degree was conducted through English. 

All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Project and video presentation [100%]

Space Industry Skillnet Funding

Space Industry Skillnet, an organisation dedicated to fostering skills and expertise in the field of Space technology, is partnering with UCD micro-credentials to develop and support the course fee for eligible learners* on relevant, space-focused, micro-credentials.

How to access the funding:

Apply for one of the applicable micro-credentials through the UCD website.
Clearly indicate on your application that you are applying with the intention of receiving a subsidised place on the course through Space Industry Skillnet’s partnership and that you believe you are eligible for this funding.
If you are successful, you will receive an offer from UCD.
Once you have accepted your offer, and provided you meet the eligibility criteria*, you will make payment of the fees for the micro-credential fee directly to Space Industry Skillnet.
Once payment has been made, you can register and join your micro-credential.

*The eligibility criteria, as set out by the Space Industry Skillnet, are as follows:

Companies must be private enterprises based in the Republic of Ireland.
Skillnet Ireland funding is not available to public sector bodies or publicly funded organisations, such as community-based not-for-profit companies or charities.
Commercial semi-state companies are eligible, providing that income contributed to a Network is not sourced from the public purse.
Sole traders are eligible as Companies.

Eligibility for Trainees:
Key requirements regarding trainee eligibility:

Trainees must be based in the Republic of Ireland.
Trainees must be employed within private enterprise.
Space Industry Skillnet is required to collect data on the profile of trainees supported and record this data for Skillnet Ireland.
 

Visit the Space Industry Skillnet website page regarding the Micro Credential course details. (opens in a new window)www.spaceindustryskillnet.com

Written feedback will be provided on the assignment.

This module may be considered as prior learning for the MSc Space Science & Technology [F060]

If you have any questions about this micro-credential, or would like to speak to a UCD staff member, please contact (opens in a new window)microcredentials@ucd.ie.