Fast method for SAR echo simulation of a three-dimensional ground scene

Due to huge calculation of SAR echo simulation of a three-dimensional (3D) ground scene, a fast simulation method is proposed. First, the data of a 3D ground scene are fractionally interpolated based on the Fractional Brownian Motion (FBM) model. Second, the data interpolated are divided into lots of small facets whose precision meets the simulation requirement, the backscattering coefficients of the small facets are calculated. Third, the shaded area is judged by the comparison method of overlook angles. Three parallel levels are analyzed and the kernel function is designed. Finally, the computing method of reduction adding and external thread are also utilized under the framework of GPU in order to get high efficiency. With the methods mentioned above, the imaging result of experimental DEM data verifies the validity and superiority of the proposed method.