ERS-1 SAR backscatter modeling and interpretation of sea ice signatures

The sea ice backscatter signature observed in images of the ERS-1 SAR depends on a large number of geophysical parameters, some of which may vary considerably. Backscatter modeling is a useful tool, to investigate the sensitivity of radar signatures to various ice properties. Scattering models must be developed on the basis of ground based radar observations which are linked with ice characterization measurements. Results of model simulations help to specify constraints on observations using a single-frequency single polarization SAR as the one onboard ERS-1. This presentation will illustrate various sea ice conditions using backscatter modeling for the interpretation