Dual-frequency airborne SAR for large scale mapping of tidal flats

Abstract

Digital elevation models of tidal flats are a most valuable data source for the water management of coastal areas and need frequent updates to account for changes in sedimentation, erosion and identification of damages in building infrastructure. This paper presents the conceptual design, the processing methodology and first results of an airborne SAR campaign conducted in July 2019 at the German North Sea coast, showing the potential for accurate monitoring of height changes at decimeter level in mudflat areas, as well as indication of vegetation cover and water flooded areas.