Passive L-Band GNSS-R and Active C- and Ka-Band Radar Inland Water Wind Speeds

Microwave remote sensing technologies enable the retrievals of open water extent, extent of flooded vegetation, moisture, and water surface wind speeds; however, there is currently no operational system to characterize wind speeds from small and moderate-sized inland water bodies (smaller than 100 km2). Reflectometry and backscatter analysis from satellite passive GNSS-R and active SAR instruments enable the characterization of diverse features based on surface roughness and dielectric characteristics. Combining multiple sensors may support the retrievals of high spatial and temporal resolution wind speeds based on these properties.