Automated Rain Detection by Dual-Polarization Sentinel-1 Data

Rain Signatures on C-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images acquired over ocean are common and can dominate the backscattered signal from surface. In many cases, inability to decipher between rain signatures disturb analysis of SAR scenes for maritime applications. This study relies Sentinel-1 acquisitions in Interferometric Wide swath mode high-resolution measurements ground-based weather radar document impact both co- cross-polarization channels. The dark bright found connection with timeliness cells. particular, patches demonstrated by hydrometeors (graupels, hails) melting layer. general, backscatter under increases rate a given sea state decreases when strengthens. also has stronger polarizations incidence angle increases. complementary sensitivity channels is then used derive filter locate areas where not dominated rain. optimized match observed more efficient polarization considered. Case studies presented discuss advantages limitations such filtering approach.