Incoherent SAR polarimetric analysis over point targets

In this letter, we show that the polarimetric behavior of point targets is preserved even in the case of multipolarization incoherent acquisitions. Point targets are defined as targets embedded in one image pixel and presenting a very stable backscatter during the integration time. We discuss in particular how the polarimetric response restoration can be helpful for point target detection and analysis from such acquisitions (e.g., ASAR Alternate Polarization mode of ENVISAT), but also for permanent scatterers interferometry applications.