Observing seasonal snow changes in the boreal forest area using active and passive microwave measurements

We present initial results from an experimental campaign aiming to acquire a comprehensive, full-snow season dataset of simultaneous backscatter and brightness temperature measurements of snow covered ground. The campaign is a part of Phase A activities in support of the proposed CoReH2O mission, aiming both to contribute to investigations on interpreting snow properties from active microwave observations, and to explore the possibilities for synergistic use of active measurements with existing passive microwave instruments. The campaign period covers the winter season of 2009-2010. Microwave observations are complemented by detailed in situ data of snow cover properties.