Simultaneous Active and Passive Microwave Measurements of the Ocean Surface
Abstract
This report considered both the use of an L-and X-band scatterometer to measure surface slicks on the ocean as well as the feasibility of using a dual linear-polarized radiometer operating at 6 GHz in conjunction with a scatterometer to measure sea surface temperature. The scatterometer measurements show: (1) the largest peaks in fluorescence, a measure of the peak Chlorophyll A concentration, are co-located with the short wave damping at 24 cm and the 4 cm wavelengths; (2) the maximum damping ratio, between the 24 cm and 4 cm waves, is at least 16 for wind speeds, 3-4 m/s; and (3) the radar roughness signatures at these short Bragg gravity wavelengths suggest the slicks are caused by damping rather than straining of these waves. Additional shipboard measurements are needed to further quantify these preliminary results. The active/passive microwave feasibility study indicated a + or - .12 C accuracy of SST can result if a scatterometer is used to correct the wind speed dependence of a vertically polarized radiometer operating near 6 GHz using a pencil antenna beam pointing at an incidence angle near 55 deg.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA242232
Entities
People
- C. L. Rufenach
- R. A. Shuchman
- R. G. Onstott
Organizations
- Environmental Research Institute of Michigan