Semi-empirical model for radar backscatter from snow at 35 and 94 GHz

Abstract

Radar backscatter experiments were conducted at 35 and 94 GHz to measure the response of snow-covered ground to snow depth, liquid water content and ice crystal size. The measurements included observations over a wide angular range extending between normal incidence and 60/spl deg/ for all linear polarization combinations. A numerical radiative transfer model was developed and adapted to fit the experimental observations. Next, the radiative transfer model was exercised for a wide range of conditions and the data that was generated was used to develop relatively simple semi-empirical expressions that relate the backscattering coefficient (for each linear polarization) to incidence angle, snow depth, crystal size, and liquid water content.