General issue about PolSARpro and SNAP

PolSARpro
1

Hi all

I’m new in this topic, and I just wondering about a controversial question. I’m not an expert in polarimetry, but considering that SNAP now allows you to perform:

  • Polarimetric Matrix Generation (C2)
  • Polarimetric Classification (Unsupervised and Wishart)
  • Polarimetric Decomposition (H-Alpha Dual Pol and Model-Based Dual Pol)
  • CP Stokes Parameters

I know; Sentinel-1 is not the best option for polarimetry (ideally, it would be a quad-pol sensor) but I was wondering: ¿What can Polsarpro contribute that does not have a snap in dual polarization?

I would like to thank you all in advance for your attention!

2

Hi,

Great Question, you’re right Sentinel-1 is only dual-pol, so it’s limited compared to full quad-pol systems. SNAP already includes some solid tools for dual-pol polarimetry (e.g., C2 matrix, unsupervised/Wishart classification, H/α decomposition, Stokes parameters), which are user-friendly and integrated.

PolSARpro, while originally built for quad-pol, still offers value for dual-pol:

  • More decomposition options and flexible matrix operations
  • Deeper educational tools and theoretical support
  • Better control over outputs and visualization
  • Useful for research or custom processing

Overall: SNAP is great for standard workflows and ease of use; PolSARpro is better if you want more advanced analysis, learning tools, or research flexibility even with dual-pol data.

Hope that helps!

Remote Sensing Cookbook is a knowledge hub designed to support academic professionals, researchers, and students in remote sensing. We simplify complex satellite data through accessible, expert-driven content for all experience levels.

1 Like
3

Thanks a lot for your answer @RSCookbook !
It has been very helpful. Therefore; my question was (more specifically) has anyone used any polarimetric decomposition or S-1 product that can only be generated by PoolSARpro?

4

Hi @eleeeel,

We have a team member who has successfully completed Freeman-Durden Polarimetric Decomposition (FRE3) within PolSARpro. Feel free to reach out to use via our email (info@remotesensingcookbook.com) if you have any further questions.

Hope that helps!

Remote Sensing Cookbook is a knowledge hub designed to support academic professionals, researchers, and students in remote sensing. We simplify complex satellite data through accessible, expert-driven content for all experience levels.