Applications of dense media radiative transfer theory for passive microwave remote sensing of foam covered ocean

The effect of the foam covered ocean surface on the passive microwave remot e sensing measurements is studied based on the electromagnetic scattering t heory. In fomulating an electromagnetic scattering model, we treat the foam as densely packed sticky air bubbles coated with thin seawater coating. Th e layer of foam covers the ocean surface that has air bubbles. We then use dense media radiative transfer (DMRT) theory with quasi-crystalline approxi mation (QCA) for densely distributed sticky moderate size particles to calc ulate the brightness temperatures of the foam-covered ocean surface. Result s are illustrated for 19 GHz and 37 GHz and for both vertical and horizonta l polarizations as a function of foam microstructure properties and foam la yer thickness. Comparisons are also made with experimental measurements.