Sub-aperture analysis of high-resolution polarimetric SAR data

High-resolution polarimetric SAR imagery is used to illustrate aspects of sub-aperture SAR image analysis. Sub-aperture analysis is employed to highlight the temporal variation of radar backscatter within the full aperture. These changes arise from motion within the scene and from angular variation of the backscatter. Two EMISAR full polarimetric, single-look images of the Storebaelt area in Denmark were considered. These L- and C-band images have a resolution of approximately 2 meters. The EMISAR resolution compares favorably to the resolution of full polarimetric SIR-C imagery. The diversity of this coastal environment provides a rich and varied scene for sub-aperture analysis.