Results from TerraSAR-X geometric and radiometric calibration

As TerraSAR-X, due for launch in June 2007, will be an operational scientific mission with commercial potential, product quality is of crucial importance. The success or failure of the mission essentially depends on the calibration of the TerraSAR-X system ensuring the product quality and the correct in-orbit operation of the entire SAR system. This paper describes the calibration procedures for TerraSAR-X and the dedicated activities to be performed during the five months commissioning phase. Results from on-ground tests are discussed with respect to geometric and radiometric calibration of the TerraSAR-X system.