Extension of Kennaugh's optimal polarization concept to the asymmetric scattering matrix case

The polarization scattering matrix measured by a bistatic radar system generally will be asymmetric. The scattering matrix will also be asymmetric when the radar system is monostatic, but the intervening propagation medium is anisotropic. Kennaugh's optimal polarizations theory is generalized to the case of the asymmetric scattering matrix. The radar antenna polarizations to be used for maximum and zero power receptions are defined and geometrically interpreted on the Poincare sphere. These polarizations, termed optimal polarizations, may be used to enhance the level of target echo return, to discriminate against undesired interference sources, or to classify radar targets.