Investigation of the Anisotropic Patterns in the Altimeter Backscatter Measurements Over Ocean Wave Surfaces

This article attempts to analyze the influence of anisotropic effects ocean wave surface on SAR altimetry backscatter coefficient (Sigma-0) measurements, which has not been intensively addressed in publications. Data Sentinel-3A, Cryosat-2, and Jason-3 altimeters allocated by WW3 numeric model were analyzed, patterns Sigma-0 with respect direction acquired under ∼2 m significant height. The waves classified into six categories, among moderate swell short win-wave cases analyzed intensively. Swell-dominated shows less randomness than wind-wave-dominated surface. Clear sinusoid trends are found SSB both operational modes (SAR mode PLRM mode) Sentinel-3A altimeter for case, indicating sensitivity measurements features measurements. pattern is somewhat counterintuitive, but analysis data would show similar results. Additionally, comparing two orthogonally polarized (Sentinel-3A Cryosat-2), we could draw conclusion that sensitive polarization mode. As SSHA patterns, no clear be identified swell. A possible explanation may overwhelmed complicated factors can pattern.