Comparison Between Back Projection Algorithm and Range Migration Algorithm in Terahertz Imaging

Back projection algorithm (BPA) and range migration algorithm (RMA) are two common approaches for image reconstruction in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging. Imaging is implemented in spatial domain and spatial frequency domain, respectively and these two methods are often considered to generate the same results. This is true in normal microwave/millimeter wave SAR imaging systems, since the object of interests is located far away and the applied wavelength is long. In this case, the location of the object is the most important issue and there is no impetus to image the object with very fine details. In case of terahertz (THz) imaging, we have found some differences by using the two algorithms above, including the position of the object and resolution in 2D and 3D imaging. Some insights are given and we believe there should be some guidelines regarding the pros and cons before choosing the exact algorithm, especially when high-performance imaging is pursued.