We have conducted a feasibility study on measuring the tree height distribution by using polarimetric SAR interferometry datasets acquired by the NASDA-CRL's L-band Polarimetric Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (PI-SAR). Test site is the Tottori Dune and its surrounding area, where pine trees were planted. Coherence and the phase differences obtained by the interferometric analysis were evaluated. As a result, we could estimate the tree height distribution if the polarimetric SAR images (co-pol and cross-pol) are acquired with larger baselines and smaller slant ranges. Quantitative evaluation is required to relate the phase center differences and the tree types and the polarization combinations.

Date Published: 21 December 2000
PDF: 8 pages
Proc. SPIE 4152, Microwave Remote Sensing of the Atmosphere and Environment II, (21 December 2000); doi: 10.1117/12.410616

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 4152:
Microwave Remote Sensing of the Atmosphere and Environment II
Thomas T. Wilheit; Harunobu Masuko; Hiroyuki Wakabayashi, Editor(s)