SAR data applications in earth observation: An overview

In this review, we present the main approaches developed around satellite and airborne Synthetic ApertureRadar (SAR) imagery. The great range of SAR imagery applications is summarized in this paper. We organizethe most popular methods and their applications in a cohesive manner. SAR data applications are classifiedinto earth observation and object detection applications and the former are separated into land, sea, and iceapplications. We present the basic methodologies and recent advances in land cover classification and objectdetection, as well as techniques for parameter retrieval from SAR data. We give advantages and disadvantagesand highlight the particular characteristics of each method. It is shown that usage of SAR contributes to theamelioration of techniques and to the enhancement of reliability.

Automated summary

This review presents the main approaches developed around satellite and airborne Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery and summarizes the wide range of SAR imagery applications. The most popular methods and their applications are organized in a cohesive manner. The applications of SAR data are classified into earth observation and object detection applications, further categorized into land, sea, and ice applications. The article presents the basic methodologies and recent advances in land cover classification, object detection, and parameter retrieval from SAR data. The advantages, disadvantages, and particular characteristics of each method are highlighted. The study shows that the usage of SAR contributes to the improvement of techniques and the enhancement of reliability.