Amplifying Rocket RCS With Retroreflective Structure

This article presents the development and validation of a retroreflective structure designed to improve the radar detection of amateur rockets. The work was carried out as part of the Student Design Competition (SDC) at the International Microwave Symposium (IMS) 2025 in San Francisco. The goal was to increase the radar visibility of rockets with cylindrical fuselages, as these are difficult to detect at high angles of incidence due to their low monostatic radar cross section (RCS). The proposed solution employs passive, air-filled slotted waveguide (SWG) antennas realized through additive manufacturing and metallic coating. The structure meets the stringent requirements for weight, size, and mechanical stability. Experimental validation shows that the developed structure significantly improves radar detection compared to a simple cylindrical body.