Applications of dense media radiative transfer theory for passive microwave remote sensing of foam covered ocean

Abstract

The effect of the foam covered ocean surface on the passive microwave remote sensing measurements is studied based on the electromagnetic scattering theory. In formulating an electromagnetic scattering model, the authors treat the foam as densely packed sticky air bubbles coated with thin seawater coating. The layer of foam covers the ocean surface that has air bubbles. They then use dense media radiative transfer (DMRT) theory with quasi-crystalline approximation (QCA) for densely distributed sticky moderate size particles to calculate the brightness temperatures of the foam-covered ocean surface. Results are illustrated for 19 GHz and 37 GHz and for both vertical and horizontal polarizations as a function of foam microstructure properties and foam layer thickness. Comparisons are also made with experimental measurements.