Coherence Optimization Using the Polarization State Conformation in PolInSAR

Abstract

A new coherence optimization algorithm is proposed for polarimetric synthetic aperture radar (SAR) interferometry applications by using the polarization state conformation algorithm based on the polarimetric basis transformation along with the polarization signatures. Through application of this algorithm, the resemblance between the scattering mechanisms of the same target in the repeat-pass polarimetric SAR (POLSAR) images is maximized. Then, coherence maps between the repeat-pass POLSAR images, before and after application of the algorithm, are generated. The coherences obtained by this method represent the best coherences or optimized coherences between the POLSAR images. The effects predicted by the theory are confirmed by the POLSAR data acquired by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory Spaceborne Imaging Radar mission.