Detailed Description of AERIS-10: Open-Source Pulse Linear Frequency Modulated Phased Array Radar

Introduction

The AERIS-10 is an innovative, open-source phased array radar system designed for researchers, drone developers, and advanced software-defined radio (SDR) enthusiasts. Operating at a frequency of 10.5 GHz, this modular and hackable platform leverages Pulse Linear Frequency Modulated (LFM) technology to enable high-resolution target detection and tracking. Available in two versions—AERIS-10N (Nexus, 3 km range) and AERIS-10E (Extended, 20 km range)—the system integrates cutting-edge signal processing, beamforming capabilities, and real-time visualization tools.

The AERIS-10 project exemplifies the democratization of radar technology by providing fully open-source hardware and software components under CERN Open Hardware Licence Version 2 – Permissive (CERN-OHL-P) for hardware and the MIT License for software. This ensures accessibility, customizability, and legal protection while fostering collaboration among developers worldwide.

📡 Overview of AERIS-10

The primary goal of the AERIS-10 project is to make phased array radar technology accessible to a broader audience. By offering a fully modular system with configurable components, researchers can experiment with:

Beamforming – Adjusting antenna arrays for directional signal transmission.
Pulse Compression – Enhancing target detection through frequency-modulated pulses.
Doppler Processing – Detecting motion and velocity changes in targets.
Target Tracking – Maintaining continuous surveillance of moving objects.

The system is designed to be used by: ✔ University researchers exploring radar principles. ✔ Drone developers integrating radar sensors for autonomous navigation. ✔ Advanced makers & hobbyists experimenting with RF and signal processing.

🔬 Key Features of AERIS-10

1. Open-Source Hardware & Software

AERIS-10 provides comprehensive documentation, including:

Schematics and PCB layouts (available for assembly).
Firmware (FPGA & STM32) in VHDL/Verilog.
Python GUI software for real-time visualization.

This openness allows users to modify, extend, or distribute the system under the specified licenses.

2. Dual-Range Versions

The radar comes in two configurations:

| Feature | AERIS-10N (Nexus) | AERIS-10E (Extended) | |------------------|---------------------------|---------------------------| | Max Range | 3 km | 20 km | | Antenna Array | 8×16 Patch Array | 32×16 Dielectric-Filled Slotted Waveguide | | Output Power | ~1W (16 elements) | 10W (GaN amplifier) |

The choice between the two versions depends on the intended application—whether for short-range surveillance or long-distance tracking.

3. Full Electronic Beam Steering (±45° in Elevation & Azimuth)

Unlike traditional radar systems that rely solely on mechanical scanning, AERIS-10 achieves beam steering electronically using:

Phase-shifting arrays (ADAR1000) to direct the radar beam.
FPGA-based signal processing for real-time adjustments.

This capability allows precise targeting without physical movement of antenna elements.

4. Advanced Signal Processing

The system employs a powerful XC7A100T FPGA for:

Pulse Compression – Enhancing resolution by compressing frequency-modulated pulses.
Doppler FFT Processing – Detecting motion and velocity changes in targets.
Moving Target Indication (MTI) – Filtering out stationary background noise.
Constant False Alarm Rate (CFAR) – Adjusting detection thresholds dynamically.

Additionally, the STM32 microcontroller manages system sequencing, power control, and peripheral communication.

5. Python GUI with Map Integration

A user-friendly interface allows real-time visualization of:

Target detection on a graphical map.
Radar beam steering controls.
Range and Doppler data.

This makes the radar accessible to non-experts while still providing detailed technical insights for advanced users.

6. GPS/IMU Integration

The system includes:

GPS module – Provides real-time position tracking for accurate mapping.
GY-85 IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) – Corrects target coordinates based on orientation, improving tracking accuracy.

7. Modular Design

AERIS-10 is built with separate boards for:

Power Management – Ensures stable voltage levels across components.
Frequency Synthesis – Uses high-performance clock generators (AD9523-1) for precise timing.
RF Boards – Handles signal amplification and modulation.

This modularity allows easy upgrades or replacements of individual components.

🏗️ System Architecture & Hardware Components

A. Power Management Board

Responsible for:

Supplying stable voltage levels to all electronic components.
Ensuring proper sequencing during power-up/down cycles (managed by the STM32 microcontroller).

B. Frequency Synthesizer Board

Features a Low Jitter Clock Generator (AD9523-1) that synchronizes:

RX & TX Frequency Synthesizers (ADF4382) – For precise frequency modulation.
DAC & ADC – Digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital converters.
FPGA – Ensures phase-aligned signal processing.

C. Main Board Components

The core of the radar system includes:

1. DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter)

Generates LFM chirps for pulse modulation, enabling high-resolution target detection.

2. Microwave Mixers (LT5552)

Handles:

Up-conversion – Boosts signal frequency from baseband to RF.
IF-down-conversion – Converts received signals back to an intermediate frequency for processing.

3. Phase Shifters (ADAR1000)

Controls 4×4-channel phase shifts in the antenna array, enabling electronic beam steering (±45°).

4. Front End Chips (ADTR1107)

Used in both:

RX (Low Noise Amplifier) – Boosts weak received signals.
TX (Power Amplifier) – Increases output power for long-range detection.

5. FPGA (XC7A100T)

Performs critical signal processing tasks, including:

Pulse compression – Enhances target resolution.
I/Q baseband down-conversion – Converts RF signals to digital form.
FFT & Doppler analysis – Detects motion and velocity.
MTI & CFAR detection – Filters noise and adjusts false alarm rates.

6. STM32F746xx Microcontroller

Manages:

Power sequencing (ensuring components turn on/off correctly).
FPGA communication (coordinating signal processing).
Peripheral control (clock generators, ADCs, DACs, GPS, IMU).

7. Power Amplifier Boards (AERIS-10E Only)

Features a 10W GaN amplifier (QPA2962) for extended range operation.

D. Antenna Arrays

Two configurations are available:

A. AERIS-10N (Nexus) – 8×16 Patch Array

Suitable for short-range applications (~3 km).
Uses smaller, more compact antenna elements.

B. AERIS-10E (Extended) – 32×16 Dielectric-Filled Slotted Waveguide

Designed for long-range detection (~20 km).
Provides higher gain and better signal penetration.

E. Miscellaneous Components

Slip-Ring – Allows rotation of antenna arrays without electrical connections.
Stepper Motor & Drivers – Enables mechanical scanning (though beam steering is primarily electronic).
Cooling Fans – Prevents overheating in high-power modes.
Enclosure – Provides structural support and protection.

📊 Technical Specifications

| Parameter | AERIS-10N (Nexus) | AERIS-10E (Extended) | |--------------------|---------------------------|---------------------------| | Frequency | 10.5 GHz | 10.5 GHz | | Max Range | 3 km | 20 km | | Antenna Array | 8×16 Patch Array | 32×16 Dielectric-Filled Slotted Waveguide | | Beam Steering | Electronic (±45°) | Electronic (±45°) | | Mechanical Scan| Stepper Motor (360°) | Stepper Motor (360°) | | Output Power | ~1W (16 elements) | 10W (GaN amplifier) |

🚀 Getting Started with AERIS-10

Prerequisites

Before assembling or programming the radar, users should have: ✅ A basic understanding of radar principles (pulse modulation, Doppler effect). ✅ Experience in PCB assembly (for hardware construction). ✅ Familiarity with Python 3.8+ for GUI development. ✅ Knowledge of FPGA programming (Vivado) for signal processing modifications.

Hardware Assembly Steps

Order PCBs & Components

All necessary files, including Gerber layouts, are available in the project repository.
The Bill of Materials (BOM) is provided for component sourcing.

Source Required Parts

Follow the assembly guide for detailed instructions on wiring and mounting components.

Select Antenna Array

Choose between 8×16 Patch Array (Nexus) or 32×16 Slotted Waveguide (Extended) based on range needs.

Enclosure Design

3D-printable files for the radar housing are available in the project documentation.

📜 Licensing & Legal Considerations

Hardware License: CERN Open Hardware Licence – Permissive (CERN-OHL-P)

Ensures proper protection of hardware designs.
Defines "Hardware," "Documentation," and "Products" clearly.
Includes patent protection for contributors.
Provides liability limitations, crucial for RF applications.

Software License: MIT License

Allows maximum flexibility in software distribution.
Ensures compatibility with open-source projects.

Why the Change?

Originally, the entire project used the MIT License. However, the community (with contributions from gmaynez) recommended switching to CERN-OHL-P due to: ✔ Legal protections for hardware modifications. ✔ Stronger patent and liability safeguards.

This ensures that users can safely experiment with high-power RF components while maintaining open-source principles.

🎯 Applications & Future Potential

The AERIS-10 radar system has diverse applications across multiple fields:

1. Drone Technology

Enables autonomous navigation using real-time target detection.
Can be integrated into swarm drone systems for surveillance or search-and-rescue missions.

2. Research & Development

Used by academic researchers to study radar signal processing.
Helps in developing new algorithms for beamforming and Doppler analysis.

3. Security & Surveillance

Can be deployed for border patrol, asset tracking, or intrusion detection.
Its modular design allows customization for specific security needs.

4. Aerospace & Space Exploration

Potential use in small satellite-based radar systems for Earth observation.
Could assist in tracking debris or monitoring space weather.

🔧 Challenges & Limitations

While AERIS-10 is a groundbreaking project, it does have some constraints:

⚠ Complexity of FPGA Programming – Requires knowledge of digital signal processing (DSP). ⚠ High Power Consumption in Extended Mode – May need additional cooling solutions. ⚠ Limited Range vs. Power Trade-off – Higher power increases range but may require more stable power supply.

Despite these challenges, the system’s open-source nature allows users to optimize performance based on their specific requirements.

📈 Conclusion

The AERIS-10 represents a significant leap in democratizing radar technology. By providing an open-source, modular, and hackable platform, it empowers researchers, engineers, and enthusiasts to explore advanced signal processing techniques without the need for expensive proprietary systems.

With its two range configurations, full electronic beam steering, and real-time Python GUI, AERIS-10 is a versatile tool for both educational purposes and real-world applications. Whether used in drone development, security systems, or aerospace research, this innovative radar system opens new possibilities for innovation in the field of RF technology.

Images from the Input:

– Overview of the AERIS-10 radar system.
– Detailed view of the antenna configuration.
– Main hardware board layout.
– Python-based radar visualization interface.

(Note: Since I cannot directly embed images, the descriptions above reference their placement in the original input.)

Open-Source Phased Array Radar: AERIS-10