Geometric performance of ENVISAT ASAR products

We describe validation measurements of the geometric accuracy of ASAR images, measured redundantly via independent methods. Our tests include image (IM), alternating polarization (AP), and wide swath (WS) mode acquisitions over a variety of test sites. ASAR´s slant range products (IMS/APS) require a slightly different validation methodology than ground range precision (IMP, APP) and medium resolution products (IMM, APM, WSM). A third approach is required for ellipsoid-geocoded products (IMG, APG). The most highly accurate validation is possible with single look complex (SLC) data (IMS and APS products), as all other product types lose resolution during multilooking. For a library of ground control points (GCPs) including map features such as bridges or road intersections, as well as (where available) transponders and corner reflectors, we use surveyed or map-measured position information (together with the delay value in the case of transponders) to solve the zero-Doppler iteration and predict the position of the GCP as an azimuth and slant range coordinate in the radar image. In the case of ground range products (e.g. IMP, APP, IMM, APM, WSM) the predicted slant range value is additionally transformed by a slant to ground range transformation tro determine the predicted image coordinate. The GCP feature is then either measured by inspection of a detected image, or localized automatically within the neighborhood of the prediction. GCPs are measured within the radar geometry image products, derivative geocoded products, and topographic maps, providing their measured map, radar geometry, and nominally geocoded GTC locations. Radar image locations are compared to map reference values and statistics of differences are tabulated. We compare the accuracies of the estimates achievable using transponders and map GCPs. Based on the suite of products (and accompanying orbit information) available to us, we establish a methodology for estimating a preliminary sampling window start time bias. The multiple validation and estimation techniques used ensure robust determination of ASAR geolocation accuracy.