Polarimetric Radar Pulse Echoes from Lunar Regolith Layer with Scatter Inhomogeneity and Rough Interfaces

To explore the potential utilities of lower frequency (L band) radar pulse for lunar exploration, a theoretical model of stratified lunar regolith media and numerical simulation of polarimetric radar pulse echoes are developed. The lunar regolith layer consists of the low lossy regolith layer with randomly rough top and bottom interfaces, and a layer of random stone-scatterers (spatially oriented oblate spheroids are assumed) is embedded and overlays the underlying rock media. The time domain Mueller matrix solution is derived to take account for scattering mechanisms of the stratified scatter media. Temporal characteristics and structure of the polarimetric echo profile as functional dependence on model parameters such as the layer thickness and the content of FeO+TiO₂, are numerically simulated, and well display an image of regolith structures. It demonstrates a potential new way to explore moon surface in future.