Automated Radar Image Analysis Research in Support of Military Needs,
Abstract
Synthetic aperture radars (SAR) are high resolution radars that can be used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and terrain analysis. The high resolution in range and azimuth is achieved by pulse compression and phase history processing, respectively. SAR images have much in common with optical images such as aerial photographs. Both are characterized by tones, patterns, shapes, and shadows. There are, however, significant differences between SAR and optical images due to the differences in the wavelengths and in the illumination and reflection of the targets. Cloud cover presents an obstacle to optical imagery but not to SAR imagery because radar waves can penetrate cloud cover. Optical imagery provides more detailed information than SAR imagery because of its higher resolution. The resolution of optical imagery decreases with distance whereas the resolution of SAR imagery is independent of distance. For large distances, for example from satellites to the surface of the earth, the resolution of SAR imagery approaches the resolution of optical imagery. These properties make SAR a very useful tool for military purposes. SAR systems can collect large quantities of imagery. For the timely and economic analysis and interpretation of SAR imagery there is a need for the development of automated and interactive capabilities that will reduce the dependency on and requirements for highly trained image analysts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA179615
Entities
People
- Frederick W. Rohde
- Pi-fuay Chen
- Richard A. Hevenor
Organizations
- Geospatial Research Laboratory