document title / titre du document TRP W ORK PLAN ... - emits - ESA

TRP Work Plan 2005-2007
Description of Activities
TEC-SB/7935/dc
12/Feb/09
TRP Reference:
Title:
T102-22ET
Active calibration for radiometers
The principle of the use of the active cold load (ACL) for radiometer calibration has already been preliminarily demonstrated at
X-band (10.7 GHz ) by a bredboard (Contract 18907). This proposed activity is aimed to further enhance and demonstrate the
ACL concept towards higher frequencis and potential applications especially in Earth Observation. Important possibilties are
foreseen in passive EO systems at frequencies between 18 to 37 GHz where significant mass, power, and cost reduction
could be achieved by substituting the currently used mechanically switched quasi-optical calibration systems by the use of
electrically switched solid-state calibration ACLs.
On the other hand, the use of an ACL could be advantagious when integrated into a quasi-optical cold calibration target which
would give more freedom in the mechanical design and calibration routines by avoiding the need for frequent sky calibration.
The activity first aims at investigating suitable technologies that are adequate to ACLs at frequencies from 18 to 37 GHz
(MMIC vs. disctere, M/InP-HEMT, HBT...). Secondly, the ACLs are designed and breadboarded to demonstrate the capability
of the ACLs to be used as replacements of mechanical calibration systems in the future. Both coaxial and quasi-optical ACLs
will be implemented to demonstrate the benefits of the concept for different types of radiometer front-ends.
Deliverables:
Cold load demonstrator
Current TRL: TRL2 Target TRL: TRL3 Application Need/Date: TRL5 by 2015
Application/Mission: GEOsounder, Post-EPS Contract Duration: 24 months
SW Clause : - Dossier0 Ref.: T-423
Consistency with Harmonisation
Roadmap and Conclusions:
Not directly linked to harmonised technology.
TRP Reference: T102-23EE
Title:
P-band SAR wave interaction and information retrieval
P-band SAR has been considered a potential tool for measuring forest biomass since the 1980s. Its proponents claim to offer
a larger dynamic range than possible with shorter wavelengths. Qualitatively that seems correct, but limited quantitative
assessments and immature physical understanding do not help us quantify its scientific value. The study develops
physically-based wave interaction and retrieval models appropriate to P-band and to high biomass forests. The observational
and theoretical basis for P-band will be reviewed. A scattering model is to be developed in order to evaluate the sensitivity of
polarimetric P-band signals to forest, soil and environment variables. A sensitivity analysis will be conducted, using the
forward model to identify key drivers for backscatter. The potential accuracy of a universal retrieval algorithm is to be
assessed through the review and the modelling.
Deliverables:
Identification of scientific observational drivers and tresholds. Physical model appropriate to P-band. Identification of key
scattering components and their relationship to biomass. Assessment of retrieval algorithms and their use in potential mission.
Current TRL: TRL1-2 Target TRL: TRL3 Application Need/Date: TRL5 by 2010
Future P-band SAR missions. One of
Application/Mission: the Earth Explorer candidate missions is Contract Duration: 12 months
covering this type of measurements
SW Clause : - Dossier0 Ref.: T-7625
Consistency with Harmonisation
Roadmap and Conclusions:
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