Potential application of satellite radar to monitor soil moistureThe microwave backscattering characteristics of soils as a function of moisture content are reviewed as a basis for the evaluation of the applicability of satellite radar to soil moisture determinations. Results of experiments showing the dependence of the complex dielectric constant, power reflection coefficient and backscattering coefficient of soil on its volumetric moisture content are presented. Results of a research program using the truck-mounted University of Kansas microwave active spectrometer to determine if, by the proper choice of sensor frequency, polarization and incidence, the sensor dynamic range in response to moisture variations may be greater than its response to other variations are considered in detail, and the optimum conditions of frequency (between 4 and 5 GHz), angular incidence (between 7 and 20 deg from nadir) and polarization (HH) obtained are indicated. An empirical model for the backscattering coefficient as a function of gravimetric moisture content derived on the basis of the experimental data is presented, and it is noted that available airborne and spaceborne data confirm the results of the ground-based sensors.
Document ID
19810058819
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Ulaby, F. T. (Kansas Univ. Center for Research, Inc. Lawrence, KS, United States)
Bradley, G. A. (Kansas Univ. Center for Research, Inc. Lawrence, KS, United States)
Dobson, M. C. (University of Kansas Center for Reserach, Inc., Lawrence KS, United States)
Date Acquired
August 11, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1981
Subject Category
Earth Resources And Remote Sensing
Meeting Information
Meeting: Annual William T. Pecora Memorial Symposium on Remote Sensing