Application of Radar Techniques to Ice and Snow Studies

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents an overview of the active microwave tools becoming available to the glaciologist with emphasis on recent radar developments as applied to floating ice. Sufficient theory is presented for the user to understand the techniques. Side-looking radar imagery is discussed using a number of examples resulting from the use of real and synthetic aperture, single and dual polarization. Recent studies of the microwave properties of ice and snow are reviewed, and are shown to be leading to significant advances in high-resolution radar techniques for accurate sounding of these materials. Remote sensing of fresh-water ice thickness is shown to be well established and operational, with similar techniques feasible in the near future for sea ice. It is pointed out that both imaging and probing radars applied to studies of sea ice and snow usually must be used in association with data from other sensors.