| Abstract | In this study, we will look at the information content of HH, VV, VH and HV polarized airborne SAR data to evaluate which of these polarizations is more appropriate to facilitate mapping of lineaments
and detailed drainage of wadi. It is known that a good knowledge of drainage network can help to locate wells and surface water retention dams. We use Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images obtained from an airborne survey flown in 1993, as part
of the GlobeSAR-1 project. Images are analysed in order to enhance a maximum of hydrogeological information. Results show that the crossed polarizations images (HV or VH) and to a lesser extent, the HH like polarization images show a good contrast
and enough details to permit hydrographic network mapping in the wadi (dry river beds) where a minimum of vegetation is available. The VV polarization is not as sensitive to vegetation presence but permits a better positioning of the wadi banks and
is useful to map roughness variations within playas. |