Interpretation Of Microwave Radiometric Images

Microwave radiometers are the only sensors capable of adverse weather, day-night operation. Operating on principles similar to those of infrared. (IR) sensors, microwave radiometers can produce imagery superior to that of high resolution radars on an equal resolution basis due to the absence of clutter an. scintillation. They also represent a low cost, small alternative to high resolution radars that can provide pod systems, remotely piloted vehicles, and aircraft with adverse weather capability where the size, cost and complexity of a radar system providing the same quality of imagery, cannot be accommodated. In addition, the phenomenology associated with microwave radiometric (MICRAD) imaging lies between. that of IR and radar. Thus, responding to different material and target characteristics, it provides new dimensions to the interpretation of multisensor systems and the increased target identification capability.