--> ABSTRACT: Exploration Application of Radarsat in the Tropics, by Z. Berger and R. Cartwright; #91021 (2010)

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Exploration Application of Radarsat in the Tropics

BERGER, ZEEV and REBECCA CARTWRIGHT

RADARSAT was launched in October 1995 by Canada with sponsorship from NASA for five years mission. RADARSAT carries only one C-band SAR, but it is capable of several imaging modes with varying resolutions, swath widths and angle of incidence. Early evaluation of RADARSAT data for geological mapping shows that this sensor has exceeded all expectations. The RADARSAT image products, in all modes, provide significant geological information and appear to overcome the series limitation associated with shadowing (airborne systems) and layover effects (ERS-1 satellite systems). Some of the advantages of RADARSAT as compared to other available remote-sensing data include: (1) the availability of ascending and descending scenes which allow the interpretation of geological structures from opposing two look directions; (2) the availability of variable resolutions and incidence angles that can provide stereo capabilities as well as the ability to "zoom" on key geological structures.

A series of examples supported by surface and subsurface controls are being used to illustrate the surface mapping capabilities of RADARSAT in the tropics and other heavy vegetative areas. The examples include mosaics and individual images from the Magdalena Basin of Colombia, the Canadian fold and thrust belt, Papua New Guinea, and the Coastal Plain of Eastern Canada.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91021©1997 AAPG Annual Convention, Dallas, Texas.