Electromagnetic radiation at long wavelengths (0.1 to 30 centimeters) falls into a segment of the spectrum commonly called the microwave region. At still longer wavelengths (centimeters to meters) the radiation is known as radio waves (these can be generated by manmade transmitters or occur naturally [e.g., beamed from ... energetic stars]). Remote sensing has utilized passive microwaves, emanating from thermally activated bodies. But, in much more common use (since World War II) is another manmade device, radar, an active transmitter-produced) microwave system that sends out radiation, some of which is reflected back to a receiver. The varying signal, which changes with the positions and shapes of target bodies, and is influenced by their properties, can be used to form kinds of images that superficially resemble those recorded by Landsat-like sensors. This first page introduces certain basic principles, described the common radar bands in use, and shows a typical radar image.
Service Citation
Originators:
Nicholas M. Short Sr.
Title:
The Remote Sensing Tutorial - Radar and Microwave Remote Sensing Applications
URL:
http://rst.gsfc.nasa.gov/
Parent DIF
This service description is a member of a collection. The collection is described in
Name:
JOHN
BOLTON
Email:
john.bolton at gsfc.nasa.gov
Contact Address:
Code 420
Earth Observing System: Program Office
NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center City:
Greenbelt
Province or State:
Maryland
Postal Code:
20771
Country:
USA
TYLER
B.
STEVENS Role:
SERF AUTHOR
Phone:
(301) 614-6898
Fax:
301-614-5268
Email:
Tyler.B.Stevens at nasa.gov
Contact Address:
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Global Change Master Directory City:
Greenbelt
Province or State:
MD
Postal Code:
20771
Country:
USA
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