Research on forest height inversion algorithm based on X-band SAR data

Abstract

Forest canopy structure is an important parameter for measuring forest changes and forest coverages. It is significant to explore the application of TerraSAR-X/TanDEM-X data in tree height inversion. In this research, the phase difference-phase coherence magnitude algorithm and the digital elevation model (DEM) method were investigated based on the random-volume-over-ground (RVoG) model. With Mengla County in Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province as the research area, the forest height inversion was performed based on TerraSAR-X/TanDEM-X data. Finally, the results were verified by combining field-measured data. For natural forests and rubber plantations, the DEM height difference method magnitude tree height inversion algorithm improves the estimation of the earth phase and canopy phase favorably, while the traditional algorithm presents a high height inversion precision for rubber plantations.