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.