Modular MIMO mm-wave radar for space applications.
MIMIRAWE
Objective
MIMIRAWE aims at realizing a demonstrator for a W-band radar system intended to be used in satellites. The objective here is to detect and track a target (for distances > 1000 m). For smaller distances (< 20 m), the system should perform imaging of the target for further signal processing decision making. The complete radar module is based on SiGe and InP circuits.
IHP's Contribution
In this context, IHP is designing specific building blocks such as down-converters and PLLs intended to be integrated in the whole system. Here, the IHP´s 250nm SiGe BiCMOS technology is used. In this regard, the activities of IHP in this project include the optimization of the design environment for hetero-integrated chips, the definition of the interfaces between Inp and SiGe parts and the design of specific circuits intended for hetero-integration. The target for the final demonstrator is to realize a radar module with a minimum number of chips thanks to the hetero-integrated process, avoiding critical high frequency off-chip interfacing.
Funding
Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt (DLR)

Project Partners
Goethe Universität Frankfurt am Main
Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
Ferdinand-Braun-Institut, Leibniz-Institut für Höchstfrequenztechnik
Robo-Technology GmbH
DLR Oberpfaffenhofen