Crop parameter retrieval with multi-temporal SAR coherence images

This paper presents the preliminary results of a three-year research project aiming to develop the understanding of the coherence as a physical parameter to retrieve crop parameters. The project objectives and methodology are presented. The main objective of the research is to implement a coherence model, using plant motion statistics at different stages of the growth and a backscatter intensity model to estimate the repartition of the backscatter power between the different parts of the plant. Validation of the model will be made using Single Look Complex data from the ERS-1/2 Tandem Mission. These data were used to produce coherence images over a test site located over Cranfield University, UK. A time series of coherence and backscatter images was produced, and preliminary results indicate that they have a valuable potential to identify different types of vegetation.