Uncertainty assessment of single-pass TanDEM-X DEMs in selected applications

Abstract

SAR interferometry is a well-known technique for producing surface models. In the global scale, the quality of these models significantly increased with the use of bistatic systems such as the German TanDEM-X mission. Quality can be measured in two scales: a global and a local one. A global scale quality analysis involves measures for the complete scene, characterizing the whole correctness with a single parameter. A local scale investigates instead inside the single elevation model cell, discriminating the different quality obtained by the various terrains and media present in the scene. Objective of this research is to define strategies for assessing standard and alternative elevation accuracy methods and to inspect the different capabilities of the bistatic system. Four investigations are carried out for this purpose: agricultural fields (Lake Gala, Turkey), Mediterranean hills (Serra de Collcardus, Spain), subglacial volcanoes (Bardarbunga, Iceland) and cities (Berlin, Germany).