Absolute Radiometric Calibration of TerraSAR-X - Approach and Ground Targets

Abstract

The German SAR satellite TerraSAR-X was successfully launched in June 2007. During the commissioning phase, the first months after launch, a calibration field campaign was carried out to conduct geometric as well as relative and absolute radiometric calibration. This was necessary to prepare the satellite for scientific and commercial use. This paper addresses results concerning the absolute radiometric accuracy and the reference ground targets involved. The two types of utilized ground targets were trihedral corner reflectors and active transponders. It will be shown that an absolute radiometric accuracy of much better than 1 dB can be achieved using both types of targets.