Line Finding Algorithms for SAR (Synthetic Aperature Radar).

Abstract : This memorandum addresses the problem of locating linear features, not necessarily straight, in Synthetic Aperture Radar images. The characteristics of such features and the way in which these characteristics affect the desired properties of line finding algorithms are discussed. Two line detection algorithms are then described: the Hough transform, and the dynamic programming technique. Results of applying both algorithms to simulated and real SAR images are given. The Hough transform is found to be too restricted to be useful for this application. The dynamic programming technique locates lines well. The problem of spurious lines appearing in clutter is discussed. (Great Britain)