Determination of Backscatter Sources in Surface Type Targets

A high-resolution X-band FM-CW radar system has been used to investigate the sources of backscatter in various types of crops, trees and surfaces. This system provided a range resolution in air of 6·67 cm and gave a 16 cm diameter illumination area at the target. The surface targets included concrete walkways, grass, soil and asphalt pavements. Although the surfaces of these targets were the primary sources of backscatter, some subsurface boundaries were located and a volume scatter contribution was evident for some targets