Absolute 4-D Positioning of Persistent Scatterers with TerraSAR-X by Applying Geodetic Stereo SAR

Abstract

The paper describes the direct retrieval of global coordinates of persistent scatterers (PS) including their secular displacement by plate tectonics from Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). For this purpose we combine stereo SAR methods, least squares parameter estimation, and geodetic observation corrections. The procedure is based on our previous research with TerraSAR-X and now applied for PS situated on the facade of a building of Technische Universität München (TUM). In order to verify the PS-based solution, we have created an accurate building model with global coordinates suitable for SAR simulations, and we use the results of permanent Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) to validate the displacement rates. Our preliminary results for the simulated phase centers and stereo SAR already indicate similar phase centers on the building facade, and the displacement rates could be retrieved with mm/year accuracy.