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:
T104-17EE
Bio- & geo-physical retrieval algorithm definition for active remote sensing of land
Title:
surfaces at P- and L-band
This project aims to define, demonstrate and assess algorithms for the retrieval of a set of bio- and geo-physical parameters
from observations that include a strong contribution from L-band SAR.
A set of bio- and geo-physical parameters will be selected, based on perceived scientific or operational need and on expected
feasibility. These are expected to include (but not be limited to) forest and other vegetation biomass, soil moisture, snow
water equivalent. Targets for operational effectiveness of retrieval algorithms shall be identified at the outset.
The work will take advantage of previous research on the refinement of wave interaction models and descriptions of the
natural surfaces and vegetation appropriate to these wavelengths. New and independent developments of interaction models
are not expected. Here, state-of-the-art descriptions and interaction models are to be used to construct, refine and predict the
robustness of quantitative retrieval algorithms.
The project will require validation experiments to be analysed. These are expected to be based on P- and L-band airborne
and, where possible, satellite datasets plus complementary remote sensing and other data or knowledge. In particular, data
from recent ESA led airborne campaigns and from Japan’s ALOS satellite (PALSAR instrument) should be a significant input
to the study.
Although not the focus of work at this stage of maturity, initial consideration of assimilation into land surface process models
would be encouraged as a theme setting the scene for future study activities.
Deliverables:
Prototype algorithm
Current TRL: TRL1 Target TRL: TRL2 Application Need/Date: SW operational by 2009
Application/Mission: Biomass mission / Habitat Contract Duration: 18 months
SW Clause : - Dossier0 Ref.: T-419
Consistency with Harmonisation
Roadmap and Conclusions:
Not directly linked to harmonised technology.
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