This paper deals with the problem of estimating the RCS from near-field data by image-based approaches. In particular, a rigorous focusing procedure based on a weighted adjoint scheme, which is also applicable to an arbitrary measurement curve, is developed. The developed formalism allows us to address the important question concerning the need to employ a multi-frequency configuration to estimate the RCS. Accordingly, it is shown that if RCS is required at a given frequency, then the target image obtained solely at such a frequency can be exploited provided that the spatial truncation arising from the size of the investigated area is properly taken into account.
Keywords: RCS estimation; adjoint inversion methods; image-based approach.