Forest parameters inversion using Polarimetric and Interferometric SAR data

In this paper we discuss some aspects of the forest height estimation using Polarimetric and Interferometric (POLINSAR) SAR data. Three main issues limit the inversion of the POLINSAR coherence from repeat-pass POLINSAR systems: temporal decorrelation, terrain slope distortions and effects of wave penetration. We show that, if temporal decorrelation is not severe, the distortions due to terrain slope can be removed and the wave penetration can be compensated using the predictions of the scattering simulator PolSARProSIM. A detailed procedure that applies to any POLINSAR data is presented and illustrated using ALOS/PALSAR data and the SRTM digital elevation model (DEM).