Spectral and polarimetric methods in active and passive remote sensing

This paper presents modern approaches to microwave and lightwave remote sensing of different objects and environments using spectral and polarimetric methods. The approach to remote sensing that combines spectral and polarimetric features of signals received from distant objects, providing spectral analysis of polarimetric variables is discussed. The general approach is described. Then some examples are given and the detailed theory is presented for the case of rain observation by active monostatic radar. The proposed approach can be developed for wide range of remote sensing methods, different objects and any frequency band. Both active and passive techniques are generalized in the spectral-polarimetric approach. The results are useful for numerous applications including telecommunications.