Imaging Simulation of Polarimetric SAR for a Comprehensive Terrain Scene Using the Mapping and Projection Algorithm

A novel approach to polarimetric image simulation for synthetic aperture radar (SAR) observation over comprehensive terrain scenes is developed based on mapping and projection principles. It incorporates penetrable and impenetrable objects, volumetric and surface scatterers in the imaging space with extinction, attenuation, shadowing, and multiple-scattering effects. Scattering of the vegetation canopy is modeled as a layer of random nonspherical particles by using the vector radiative transfer model, and scattering from the ground surface and building objects is calculated by using the integral equation method. As an example, polarimetric SAR images at L-band and C-band and the different spatial resolutions for a virtual terrain scene composed of tree canopies, farmland, buildings, rough land surface, hills, and rivers are simulated. The imaging simulation results demonstrate the feasibility of the mapping and projection approach and the potential utilities of SAR imaging simulation