ERS-1 SAR Data Extraction Methodologies, and Procedures

Abstract

This paper discusses the procedures used to derive the products available from the ERS-1 SAR Precision Images (Herein called SAR images.) The products that are available are: raw image, 8x8 averaged image, tiling, simple tiling of percolation threshold classification, swath of dB values of across swath along row or column of images, filtered data of swaths. Each of these products have a distinct procedure for producing the result, and have a section of this paper dedicated to expressing it. The purpose of the products can be expressed by the following: To understand seasonal and longer time variations in the dynamics & physical properties of polar ice on hemispheric scales. Remote sensing provides the tools for reaching that goal. A preliminary plan to meet this goal is 1) To visualize the data received, 2) Classify the different regimes, 3) Overlay different instruments data sets for comparison and enhancement, 4) Produce a model to use against other SAR data, and 5) To create an animated movie of changes with respect to temporal changes. At the date of publication, (1) and (2) have been attacked.