A new open-source hardware radar system called AERIS-10 brings phased array radar technology within reach of researchers, drone developers, and SDR enthusiasts at a fraction of commercial costs. The 10.5 GHz system uses Pulse Linear Frequency Modulated (LFM) modulation and runs on an AMD Artix-7 FPGA, delivering capabilities that typically command six-figure price tags in commercial systems. Two versions are available: the AERIS-10N (Nexus) with up to 3 km (1.9 miles) range using an 8x16 patch antenna array, and the AERIS-10X (Extended) offering up to 20 km (12.4 miles) range with a 32x16 dielectric-filled slotted waveguide array.
The system centers on an AMD Artix-7 XC7A100T FPGA that handles chirp generation, baseband down-conversion, pulse compression, Doppler processing, and FFT operations. An ST STM32F746xx microcontroller manages power, sensors (GPS, IMU, barometer), and communication with key RF components including four ADAR1000 phase shifters for beamforming, 16 ADTR1107 front-end chips, and two LT5552 microwave mixers. The Extended version adds 16 QPA2962 GaN power amplifiers rated at 10 watts each to achieve its longer range. Both models feature electronic beam steering up to 45 degrees in elevation and azimuth, plus a Python GUI with real-time target plotting and map integration.
All design files live on GitHub under CERN-OHL-P and MIT licenses, including EAGLE schematics, PCB layouts, Gerber files, FPGA code in VHDL/Verilog, STM32 firmware, and the Python interface. Bill of materials estimates put the AERIS-10N at around $5,000 (€4,600) to $8,000 (€7,400) in parts, while the Extended model runs approximately $13,000 (€12,000) to $15,000 (€13,800) due to those pricey GaN amplifiers at $450 (€414) each. That makes it 90 to 95 percent cheaper than commercial phased array systems starting at $250,000 (€230,000), though builders should verify local regulations before operating X-band radar equipment.
