Sea surface scattering
Abstract
Basic mechanisms of sea-surface scattering are described for a two-scale model. The basic concept of Bragg resonance is illustrated with a sinusoidal component of the ocean spectrum. Factors affecting the overall spectrum of ocean waves are listed. Sketches show the geometry associated with using a scatterometer to calculate windspeed in measurements of radar backscatter from the wind driven sea. The model described is quasi-empirical based upon theoretical calculations and measurements with both spacecraft and aircraft. Problems in accurate determination of model parameters are discussed for aircraft and spacecraft. Details are given of research on capillary wave distribution, the satellite altimeter and other non-imaging techniques for determining wave spectra are set out. Unknown quantities including surface expression of bottom topography are mentioned.
- Publication:
-
Coherent and Incoherent Radar Scattering from Rough Surfaces and Vegetated Areas
- Pub Date:
- May 1981
- Bibcode:
- 1981cirs.rept...53M
- Keywords:
-
- Capillary Waves;
- Coherent Scattering;
- Incoherent Scattering;
- Ocean Surface;
- Radar Scattering;
- Water Waves;
- Ground Wind;
- Imaging Techniques;
- Mathematical Models;
- Seasat Satellites;
- Communications and Radar