Selected Research and Development

Technology Brief Description
GPU SAR Processing Neva Ridge has used GP-GPU processors for their convolution back projection processor. Compared to using a 2.67 GHZ i7 CPU processor with 12 GB of memory, we have demonstrated over two orders of magnitude improvement in processor throughput by using an NVIDIA GPU (Tesla C1060, 240 stream processors, 1.3 GHz clock, 4GB memory). While the back projection algorithm is well suited for parallelization and is straightforward to implement in a GPU architecture, we are also seeing significant speed-ups of other SAR image formation algorithms. Currently, we are under contract to NASA to investigate applying GPU technology to more challenging interferometric SAR processing algorithms.

For more information contact Richard Carande
Automated Signal Processing for Information Exploitation Neva Ridge Technologies is developing an innovative concept for drastically improving the interpretability of coherent change detection (CCD) images acquired from synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensors, and greatly increasing the potential for automated information extraction. The concept exploits a new CCD data collection paradigm that can easily and cost-effectively be accommodated using existing technology. Using this approach, decorrelation "noise" can be easily distinguished from decorrelation "signals" of interest. This new CCD technique offers for the first time, the potential to drastically improve CCD analysis through both the simplification of analyst activities and the development of automated algorithms. This work is being carried out under contract to the US Air Force, AFRL.

For more information contact Richard Carande
Time-Series InSAR Analysis Exploitation of a time-series of coherent InSAR observations of a site can result in very sensitive measurements of on-going ground motion. Very small continuous subsidence or uplift signals can be detected using time-series techniques that effectively allow one to reduce the inherent phase noise levels of InSAR observations. Neva Ridge is engaged in funded and IR&D programs to improve time-series InSAR technology. Stacking, SBL, Permanent Scatter (PS), Spectral and Interferometric Time-Series Analysis tools have been demonstrated at Neva Ridge. An example of the extraction of a seasonal ground motion signature can be seen here.

For more information contact David Cohen
Synthetic Aperture Radar Performance Prediction Tool A software tool for the prediction of SAR performance has been developed at Neva Ridge Technologies. This tool allows one to specify various input parameters about the SAR system and calculate the expected performance. Output performance parameters include: noise-equivalent sigma zero levels, expected resolution, data rates, swath coverage, coverage rates and average power levels. This tool supports both spaceborne and airborne SAR design. The tool is an invaluable resource for developing a SAR design and specification. For more information, see the Products page, or click here.

For more information contact Richard Carande