Hello
Matteo Monti
Ph.D. Student in Information Technology, Politecnico di Milano
About Me
My research activity focuses on the comprehensive study and design of a system based on geostationary Synthetic Aperture Radar (GEO-SAR) satellites, aimed at providing unprecedented near-continuous observations with short interferometric revisit times. Unlike traditional Low-Earth Orbit systems, a geostationary configuration allows for persistent monitoring of specific areas, yet it requires a sophisticated design to overcome the challenges posed by the vast distance and the significant spatio-temporal variations of the atmosphere. The proposed system is envisioned to evolve from an initial single-satellite configuration into a more complex, coherent formation of two or more satellites, enabling advanced interferometric capabilities.
The foundation of this research lies in the development of an efficient simulation code designed to generate multitemporal SAR raw data. This simulation environment must be highly realistic, incorporating the dynamic effects of time-varying fields such as atmospheric phase screens, vegetation decorrelation, and other environmental clutter sources. By accurately modelling these disturbances, the simulator provides a robust framework for understanding how signal degradation impacts interferometric quality over short time intervals.
Building upon this data generation capability, the second phase of the work focuses on the development of an efficient focusing scheme specifically tailored for interferometric applications. In the GEO-SAR context, this requires addressing the unique orbital mechanics and the long integration times necessary to achieve adequate Signal-to-Noise Ratios. The algorithm must be optimized to maintain phase consistency while compensating for the geometric complexities inherent in geostationary platforms.
The final stage of the research involves the creation of a comprehensive end-to-end interferometric processor. This tool serves as the primary platform for evaluating overall system performance and fine-tuning the focusing algorithms. By integrating detailed models of satellite geometry and changing environmental fields, the processor allows for the rigorous assessment of the system's ability to retrieve high-quality geophysical information. Ultimately, this research provides the necessary theoretical and computational framework to enable real-time monitoring of rapid surface deformations and atmospheric changes, pushing the boundaries of current spaceborne remote sensing technology.
Click here to view my poster.
The foundation of this research lies in the development of an efficient simulation code designed to generate multitemporal SAR raw data. This simulation environment must be highly realistic, incorporating the dynamic effects of time-varying fields such as atmospheric phase screens, vegetation decorrelation, and other environmental clutter sources. By accurately modelling these disturbances, the simulator provides a robust framework for understanding how signal degradation impacts interferometric quality over short time intervals.
Building upon this data generation capability, the second phase of the work focuses on the development of an efficient focusing scheme specifically tailored for interferometric applications. In the GEO-SAR context, this requires addressing the unique orbital mechanics and the long integration times necessary to achieve adequate Signal-to-Noise Ratios. The algorithm must be optimized to maintain phase consistency while compensating for the geometric complexities inherent in geostationary platforms.
The final stage of the research involves the creation of a comprehensive end-to-end interferometric processor. This tool serves as the primary platform for evaluating overall system performance and fine-tuning the focusing algorithms. By integrating detailed models of satellite geometry and changing environmental fields, the processor allows for the rigorous assessment of the system's ability to retrieve high-quality geophysical information. Ultimately, this research provides the necessary theoretical and computational framework to enable real-time monitoring of rapid surface deformations and atmospheric changes, pushing the boundaries of current spaceborne remote sensing technology.
Click here to view my poster.