Polarization-dependent statistical models of sea clutter.

Abstract

The statistical analysis of electromagnetic scattering is crucial for understanding sea clutter due to various influencing factors such as weather conditions and wave activity, making research in this area particularly challenging. To address this, multiple statistical models have been developed, as no single model can fully meet the requirements for accurate analysis. These models are used to characterize and calculate sea clutter. While traditional models are based on fully polarized electromagnetic waves, which are inherently vectorial, the complex nature of the sea surface means that actual electromagnetic scattering cannot be completely polarized. Therefore, more realistic models should adopt a vector approach. This paper employs the Rayleigh distribution, the K-distribution, the log-normal distribution, and the Weibull distribution to examine the polarization statistical characteristics of sea clutter models. We investigate the probability density functions of the Stokes parameters and analyze the evolution of each model in relation to its respective shape parameters. This research deepens and enhances the understanding of sea clutter properties in the relevant parts of the electromagnetic regime.