DEM corrected ERS-1 SAR data for snow monitoring in alpine regions

This paper presents the results from a study on the use of ERS-1 SAR data for snow parameter extraction in mountainous areas. Eight ERS-1 SAR data sets and data from four field measurements from the Kvikne area in south-Norway have been available. The data have been acquired during the snow melt period from April until June 1992. The SAR data have been calibrated and geocoded using Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data, and analyzed in terms of evaluating the relationship between the backscattering coefficient, (sigma) o, and snow conditions. We have observed a decrease in (sigma) o of approximately 3 dB between dry and wet snow, which indicates that ERS-1 SAR data can be used for monitoring the extent of a wet snow cover.