SubSAR - A Scheme for the Discrimination Between Surface and Sub-Surface Features at Large Stand-Off Distances

摘要

We report on SubSAR, a new application of DInSAR for the discrimination between surface and sub-surface features, at large stand-off distances applicable to airborne and satellite measurements. This is in sharp contrast to current techniques, where discrimination relies on close-in measurement of the scene, usually by scanning across the surface with a ground-penetrating radar. Close-in schemes rely on an ability to spatially isolate vertically, the surface and sub-surface backscatter returns, such that range-layover severely limits practical stand-off distances. DInSAR phase has classically been used to provide sub-wavelength measurements of surface deformation. However, recent studies have indicated that the phase signature can also be used as a proxy for soil moisture changes, and the SubSAR technique utilizes that relationship to distinguish between surface and buried features. It is proposed the new scheme will have diverse applications in remote sensing, including soil moisture monitoring and humanitarian demining.