Comparing Compact and Quadrature Polarimetric SAR Performance

The respective classification accuracy levels of compact and quadrature polarimetric synthetic aperture radars (SARs) are compared through results reported in the literature. Classification methodologies are critiqued. A faulty methodology compromises many of those studies. An appropriate methodology leads to trustworthy results. When correctly implemented, classifications from hybrid dual-polarimetric data achieve accuracy levels comparable to those from a quadrature-polarized SAR, to within a few percent.