Geological mapping in the Amazon Jungle: A challenge to side-looking radar

A brief outline of the physical environment and vegetation characteristics peculiar to the Amazon Jungle is given to provide the background for the discussion of energy target interaction models. Examples of radar images of the central part of the jungle are used to illustrate a common approach to geologic mapping in this environment. During the initial phase of interpretation, the interaction phenomenon is evaluated and textural and tonal characteristics of the radar image are observed. Field checking of selected areas is the next phase of a geologic mapping program. Reinterpretation of radar images and auxiliary data (aerial photographs, Landsat images, and field data) is the last phase of geologic mapping.