Finland in Space
Applications and Software for SAR Interferometry and Coherent Target Monitoring
The SAR radar orbits the Earth, sends a pulse of microwave energy directly towards the Earth's surface, and measures the energy returning to the satellite. Microwaves penetrate rain and clouds, so the SAR radar provides information from the Earth's surface regardless of the weather. By comparing the radar images, it is possible to see even the smallest changes in the Earth's surface, even down to a matter of millimeters.
A second application round is planned for the remote sensing cooperation. The joint venture has already resulted in increased visibility for Finns in Canada. From the beginning, the project was planned so that the partners were not competing against one another. During the project, Pöyry, the Geodetic Institute, and the Helsinki University of Technology demonstrate applications for measuring tectonic movements.
The Finnish participants comprise the Geodetic Institute, the Helsinki University of Technology, and Pöyry Environment Oy. The Canadian participants are the research organizations National Resources Canada and Canadian Forest Service, and a business partner called Vexcel Canada Inc. The first stage of the project was completed in December 2006.
The Finnish industry and research community are playing an active role in this research and development:
- The Geodetic Institute
The Geodetic Institute is a mapping research institute operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. Its task is to take care of the scientific basic measurements for the mapping of Finland and the photogrammetric metrology, as well as to practice scientific research in the fields of geodesy, geoinformatics, and remote sensing.
- Pöyry Environment
Pöyry Environment Oy is a leading Finnish consulting and engineering office in the infrastructure and environment sector. It offers versatile solutions in areas such as community planning, architectural planning, landscaping, and water and sewage network infrastructure.
The Canadian participants in this project are:
