Understanding microwave surface backscattering of bare soil by comparing models and experimental data collected during two different airborne campaigns

The influence of random surface roughness and soil moisture on microwave scattering from soil has been analyzed by using both experimental data collected at P, L and C bands during airborne campaigns and theoretical models with appropriate approximations for each frequency range. The soil backscattering coefficient has been predicted by using the integral equation method for all the three frequencies, considering the soil as a dielectrically homogeneous medium. The comparison between experimental data and model calculations has been carried out considering direct relationships between backscattering coefficient and roughness and moisture parameters. A sensitivity analysis to soil parameters has been carried out for data at L and C bands