Ka-band Imaging InSAR: Status, Technological Elements and Outlook

Abstract:
Since recent years, the utilization of Ka-band for Earth Observation radar is under investigation. Several spaceborne instrument concepts are under development while the first instrument is already operational in orbit. Currently, missions for ocean applications are paving the way forward towards utilisation of Ka-band from space. However applications for Land and Cryosphere are developing and these will certainly be the next step utilisation. Indeed, Ka-band is particularly interesting for applications which take advantage from low penetration depth and/or benefit from interferometric imaging techniques. The short wavelength in addition allows single satellite single pass interferometric instruments with constant baseline giving consistent performance over the orbit.