Icebergs detection with TerraSAR-X data using a polarimetric notch filter

Detection of icebergs is a major topic for surveillance of polar maritime areas and coastlines. Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) has been shown to be particularly useful because of its all-weather and night capability. In this paper a methodology based on the polarimetric perturbation analysis is presented. The algorithm can be considered to be a negative filter focused on sea. Consequently, all the features which have a polarimetric behavior different from the sea are detected and considered as targets (i.e. ships, buoys, icebergs). In this work the notch filter is focused on icebergs detection. A test with TerraSAR-X quad polarimetric data was performed over a scene acquired on the Canadian coastal area (Northwest Passages). The detections showed promising results, with identification of areas where large and small icebergs appear, but also ridges seems to be detected.