Radar Remote Sensing of Planetary Surfaces

A 2002 introduction to radar remote sensing of natural surfaces, including radar data collection, image interpretation and surface roughness analysis. Radar surveys of the Moon, Mercury, Venus and Mars are presented at a level appropriate for students and professionals in the Earth and planetary sciences, electrical engineering, and remote sensing.

This 2002 introduction to the use of radar for remote sensing of natural surfaces provides the reader with a thorough grounding in practical applications, focusing particularly on terrestrial studies that may be extended to other planets. An historical overview of the subject is followed by an introduction to the nomenclature and methodology pertaining to radar data collection, image interpretation and surface roughness analysis. The author then presents a summary (illustrated with black and white examples from the natural environment) of theoretical explanations for the backscatter properties of continuous rough surfaces, collections of discrete objects, and layered terrain. Case studies of radar surveys of the Moon, Mercury, Venus and Mars complete the book. The level is appropriate for students and professionals across a broad range of scientific disciplines including Earth and planetary sciences, electrical engineering, and remote sensing. Particular emphasis is given to practical geological and geophysical studies of the terrestrial planets.