A fractal-based theoretical framework for retrieval of surface parameters from electromagnetic backscattering data

A new theoretical framework for retrieval of dielectric and geometric surface parameters from electromagnetic backscattering data is presented. Use is made of fractal geometry for description of the surface. The suggested scheme leads to a two-step procedure that allows the authors to retrieve the surface complex permittivity and the fractal parameters. Limits of validity for the procedure applicability are presented. The robustness of the method is checked against input data measurement errors and electromagnetic model inaccuracies. Key points for application of the new framework to synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data are discussed