Active Remote Sensing: Principles and Applications

This lecture covers the principles of active remote sensing, focusing on synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and its applications. It begins with an overview of active sensors and the effects of surface geometry on radar imagery, including shadowing and speckle noise. The instructor explains the concept of synthetic aperture, where a moving platform illuminates the same point multiple times, enhancing resolution. The lecture discusses the Doppler effect and how it influences signal analysis, allowing for improved angular resolution independent of distance. Interferometry techniques are introduced, highlighting their ability to measure ground displacement with high precision. The lecture also covers various radar applications, including altimetry and meteorological observations, emphasizing the importance of frequency selection for different targets. The session concludes with practical examples of radar systems used in environmental monitoring and the challenges associated with interpreting radar data. Overall, the lecture provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and methodologies behind active remote sensing technologies.