TerraSAR-X: predicted performance

This paper reports about the status of the actual performance prediction and some selected investigations within the system engineering for the TerraSAR-X satellite, which will be implemented in a Public-Private-Partnership between the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and the ASTRIUM GmbH. The main sensor parameters and modes of operation are summarized. Image simulations based on X-band data from the E-SAR sensor of DLR give an impression on the expected image quality with respect to geometric and radiometric resolution. Different realization possibilities for the dual polarization mode are investigated and the actual baseline for this mode is described. The potential of two independent receiving channels is analyzed and the paper reports about possible additional features as investigated so far.