RADARSAT calibration: the operational system and initial results

The Canadian Earth observation satellite, RADARSAT, was launched in late 1995. The aim of this spaceborne SAR program is to provide operationally calibrated products. To enable calibration of RADARSAT data, the RADARSAT Image Data Calibration System has been developed. This includes RADARSAT Precision Transponders and two calibration workstations. Data from these point targets and diffuse target regions are being analyzed during the current testing phase. Results show that RADARSAT is meeting its performance specifications.