A Fully-Focused SAR Omega-K Closed-Form Algorithm for the Sentinel-6 Radar Altimeter

Abstract

The 2-D frequency-based omega-K method is known to be a suitable algorithm for fully focused SAR (FF-SAR) radar altimeter processors, as its computational efficiency is much higher than equivalent time-based alternatives without much performance degradation. In this article, we provide a closed-form description of a 2-D frequency-domain omega-K algorithm specific for instruments such as Poseidon-4 onboard Sentinel-6. The processor is validated with real data from point targets and over the open ocean. Applications such as ocean swell retrieval and lead detection are demonstrated, showing the potentiality of the processor for future operational global-scale products.