Microwave scattering from the sea surface

Models of the ocean surface and their use to describe the scattering of microwave energy from the sea are presented with particular reference to satellite microwave remote sensing. The description and derivation of the scatter cross-section per unit area is developed for a facet model for composite surfaces. The model is expanded to incorporate the hydrodynamic interaction between winds and waves. An approximate solution to a boundary value problem is obtained for an ideally conductive time invariant, slightly rough surface for both infinite and finite oceans. The limitations of the models are discussed.