Prediction of Forest Backscatter by Applying a Single Tree Scattering Model

Abstract

In this thesis a study and further development of a single tree scattering model, used to predict forest backscatter, has been carried out. The existing scattering model is presented, together with the simulations where it has been used. The single tree scattering model is fully polarimetric and coherent. It uses the infinite cylinder approximation (ICA) to calculate the scattered field from a collection of dielectric cylinders, together forming a tree. The cylinder tree has been generated by the LIGNUM tree growth model.

The results of the improved scattering model, to which ground roughness has been added, are presented and compared with, the results of the previous model, as well as with SAR (synthetic aperture radar) measurements. The improved model uses an integral equation model (IEM) to model scattering from the ground. The results of the improved model are in good agreement with SAR measurements. The single tree scattering model has also been used to predict the forest canopy extinction, by applying the forward scattering theorem. The results of the extinction estimates have been compared with a semi-empirical model.