Automated information extraction from high resolution SAR images: TerraSAR-X interpretation applications

High resolution remote sensing SAR images - such as the image data acquired by the German TerraSAR-X mission - contain a variety of details that have to be extracted by automated processing in order to fully exploit and understand the image content. In particular, the interpretation of man-made structures that are typical of built-up or agricultural areas poses a number of challenges including parameterized image focusing during routine processing, careful despeckling, descriptor and feature extraction, and final classification including specific scattering and 3D effects. Therefore, we propose a set of general sequential as well as dedicated application-dependent processing steps that allow user-oriented classification of high resolution SAR images. We will also report on actual classification results and experiences.