Polarimetric SAR Interferometry simulator of complex targets

This paper presents a numerical tool that uses high frequency electromagnetic methods to generate polarimetric interferometric SAR (POLIN-SAR) images of complex targets. It provides high scenario flexibility and a good trade-off between accuracy and computer costs. This simulator is suitable for numerous applications and this paper will assess its usefulness for vessel classification. Preliminary results of the potentialities of height maps for building classification patterns are commented. In this framework, the features of a simple approach based on the Pauli scattering vector that retrieves height information even from different scattering mechanisms within a resolution cell are analyzed with simulated images.