A Matlab Physical Optics RCS Prediction Code
Abstract
POFACETS is an implementation of the physical optics approximation for predicting the
radar cross section (RCS) of complex objects. It utilizes the scientific computational
features of MATLAB and its Graphical User Interface (GUI) functions to provide an
error-free encoding of input parameters and efficient calculation. POFACETS provides a
convenient tool for a “first cut” at the RCS of complex shapes by representing its
constituent parts by triangular facets. The software calculates the monostatic or bistatic
RCS of the object for the parameters specified by the user and displays plots for the
model geometry and its RCS. There is a limited capability to include shadowing, and
resistive surfaces can also be modeled. The simplicity of the GUI design does not require
the user to have a detailed understanding of the various steps involved in the RCS
calculation. The software is available free of charge on the ACES web site.