Sea Surface Scattering Observations and Predictions Using Satellite-Based S-Band Signals-of-Opportunity

A recent ship-based field campaign demonstrated the use of a maritime multichannel reflectometer using Sirius-XM broadcast radio downlinks as Signals-of-Opportunity. This campaign involved the collection of a large dataset of bistatic ocean surface scattering measurements, which coincided with ground-truth data detailing local oceanographic parameters. The experiment was unique in that most of its measurements were taken well outside the plane of incidence, with illumination from an oblique angle. This study offers a novel opportunity to explore the fidelity of electromagnetic models (coupled with oceanographic models) to predict radar scattering in these unique geometries. Match-ups are shown between measured and modeled bistatic normalized radar cross sections and range profiles, with the intention of both supporting shore- and pier-based reflectometry through bistatic surface scattering model validation and demonstrating the utility of using reflectometry for oceanic remote sensing from a sea-faring vessel.