Oil-slick observation using single look complex TerraSAR-X dual-polarized data

In this study single look complex (SSC) TerraSAR-X dual-polarized data are firstly exploited for sea oil slick observation purposes. An electromagnetic model which, based on the Co-polarised Phase Difference between the HH and VV channels (CPD), allows describing the X-band sea surface scattering with and without surface slicks is proposed. Following this rationale, the polarimetric approach is firstly developed and applied to X-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data in which both certified oil slicks and look-alikes are present. Experimental results demonstrate, for the first time, that X-band dual-polarimetric SAR data are suitable for sea oil slicks observation purposes and witness the paramount importance of the TerraSAR-X dual-polarimetric mode for such application.