| Abstract | In this paper, the technique introduced by Cameron to maximize the symmetric component of target coherent scattering is reconsidered in the context of SAR imagery. It is shown that the classification
method that Cameron developed for operational use of his coherent target decomposition (CTD) method might yield misleading results because of the large radiometric dispersion tolerated in each of the elemental scatterer classes, as well as the
implicit assumption on the coherence of target scattering. Application of this method within known SAR radiometric calibration requirements limits significantly the usefulness of Cameron's classification. A new method, named the symmetric
scattering characterization method (SSCM), which better exploits the information provided by target coherent symmetric scattering, is introduced. The SSCM can be applied to point targets, as well as to extended targets, using new tools that validate
the coherent nature of target scattering. The Poincaré sphere is used as the basis for a suitable representation of symmetric scattering, and for the development of a high resolution segmentation of symmetric scattering. The direction of the
symmetric scattering component, as well as the trihedral-dihedral channel phase information, are investigated as potential tools for characterization of the unique coherent information provided by target symmetric scattering. |