Stokes matrix parameters and their interpretation in terms of physical target properties

There is a vast difference between the use of the target-scattering matrix SM and the Stokes (or Mueller) matrix MM. The SM contains essentially target information in terms of EM-field components, whereas the MM consists of terms which are correlations of these. The SM, although useful to provide the input data, has the disadvantage of being absolutely phase-dependent, whereas the MM has only parameter interphase (relative phase) dependencies. This makes it possible to interpret independent 'objects' which are added incoherently, just as is the case with objects of perception. The object approach is further enhanced through the interpretation of MM parameters in terms of unique physical properties of radar target classes.