Applications of SAR data to the estimate of forest biophysical variables in Brazil

Abstract

The use of radar images has been highlighted in scientific research focused on forest data collection worldwide. Thus, the present work aimed at gathering studies turned to the application of radar images to obtain biophysical variables of forests in Brazil.  Based on the survey of studies published, a growing amount of publications over time was observed with more focus on researches made mainly in Amazonian biome, followed by forests planted with eucalyptus destined to forest production.  Most works was made based on airborne radar data, followed by JERS-1 and ALOS/PALSAR orbital data. It is remarkable the scientific knowledge produced using radar data from Brazilian forests, demonstrating that this technology is another tool for studies and applications in Forestry Sciences that can assist in the country’s forestry management. Nevertheless, the need of studies on the several forest typologies across Brazil was evidenced, along with the lack of research related to radar use to estimate biophysical variables in caatinga and Atlantic Forest biomes.