Modeling of bottom-related surface patterns imaged by synthetic aperture radarA hydrodynamic electromagnetic model is developed in order to provide a qualitative and quantitative description of the relationship between Seasat synthetic aperture radar (SAR) signatures and the bottom topography of the ocean in the English Channel region of the North Sea. The model is based on environmental data for winds, currents, and depth changes, and the SAR parameters of frequency polarization, incidence angle, and resolution cell size. The data are used as inputs and SAR backscatter changes are predicted for individual topographic changes on the ocean floor. It is found that the model estimates of backscatter values are in good agreement with actual Seasat SAR-observed backscatter values. A comparison of the model and actual data shows agreement to be within 1.5 dB. The model is considered to be valid for only shallow water areas (less than 50 meters in depth). It is suggested that for bottom features to be visible on SAR imagery at greater depths, a moderate-to-high velocity current of at least 0.4 m/s and a moderate wind no more than 7.5 m/sec must be present.
Document ID
19850035429
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Lyzenga, D. R. (Environmental Research Inst. of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI, United States)
Shuchman, R. A. (Environmental Research Inst. of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI, United States)
Kasischke, E. S. (Michigan, Environmental Research Institute, Ann Arbor MI, United States)
Meadows, G. A. (Michigan, University Ann Arbor, MI, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1983
Subject Category
Oceanography
Meeting Information
Meeting: 1983 International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium (IGARSS ''83)