Comparison between SRTM-C DEM and ICESat elevation data in the arid Kufrah area

Radar has the capability of penetration into low-loss dry sand down to bedrock beneath. This suggests the possibility of 3D bedrock topography retrieval using SAR interferometry beneath dry sand. The influence of different penetration depths on the InSAR DEM generation is analysed initially based on a two-layer sand model. Meanwhile, ICESat elevation data and the SRTM-C DEM associated with a SRTM-C amplitude image are employed to make a comparison to reveal the penetration of C-band radar wave in the Libyan Kufrah desert region. On the basis of the analysis and the comparison, it is inferred that the SRTM-C DEM is mostly affected by the subsurface height.