Forward and inverse models for sea ice physical parameter retrieval

In this paper, a forward and inverse modelling approach for application in sea ice physical parameter retrieval is proposed. The algorithm is a combination of a forward model based on Radiative Transfer theory and a global optimizer known as Simulated Annealing. In the model, the forward model provides the estimation of the radar backscatter data from a set of input parameters. The accuracy of the calculation is further improved with the incorporation of the Dense Medium and Amplitude Correction Theory. Simulated Annealing is then applied to optimize the discrepancy between the calculation of the forward model and the measurement data to predict one or more of the unknown parameters. Preliminary testing with the algorithm has shown that the prototype is functioning as expected. In this paper, the prototype is tested more vigorously using average calculations of data from ground truth measurements at Ross Island, Antarctica from the years 2006 – 2008 or data from other sources.