Author(s): S. Gerland; G. Spreen; T. Eltoft; A. H. H. Renner; M. A. N. Moen; J. King; M. A. Granskog; N. Hughes; A. Fors; P. Wagner
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Keywords: No Keywords
Abstract: Observational sea ice data are necessary for processing and improvement of satellite remote sensing products from SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) and altimetry. High resolution, multipolarisation SAR data from the Radarsat-2 satellite contains additional information besides what one can extract from visual interpretation. However, the optimal way for retrieving the most interesting information about sea ice classes and properties remains a challenge. We have been conducting studies that combined the use of sea ice and snow thickness data, airborne photography, sea ice and snow physical property data, and satellite data. Statistical analysis of Radarsat-2 quad-pol scenes combined with ice thickness and camera helicopter transects reveals the potential of novel SAR image analysis over sea ice. Observational data were used to label statistically-derived segments of sea ice surfaces from SAR data with specific classes, for Arctic sea ice with different characteristics and conditions. The development of methods to derive sea ice freeboard and thickness from satellite-based altimeters using radar or laser has been an active field of research since the 1990’s. Airborne and in situ observations are used to evaluate and validate these satellite ice thickness products by direct inter-comparison. Furthermore, in situ data are used to assess the penetration of the radar or laser signal into the snow pack, and to provide updated snow and ice properties for improving freeboard to thickness conversations. An outlook is given focusing on near future calibration and validation over Arctic sea ice in connection with a drift station experiment north of Svalbard in 2015.
Year: 2014