Synthetic Aperture Radar Definition

synthetic aperture radar

[remote sensing] Also known by the acronym SAR. A remote sensing technology that uses the movement of a radar antenna to simulate a large aperture, producing high-resolution images. SAR uses an active sensor to measure the backscatter reflected from signals it sends to the earth's surface to produce images. SAR signals can penetrate clouds, smoke, and darkness, which can be used to monitor and analyze environments in all weather and lighting conditions. It is most commonly used in applications such as environmental monitoring, disaster management, and military surveillance.