In winter 2012-13 the AlpSAR field experiment was performed in the Austrian Alps, with the objective to acquire an experimental data base on Ku- and X-band radar backscatter of snow by means of airborne SAR, together with detailed co-located field measurements. Comprehensive data sets on physical properties of snow were acquired in three different alpine snow zones during campaigns spanning from early to late winter season. The data sets include detailed measurements of stratigraphy and physical properties of snow, and measurements of snow depth along transects in order to obtain spatially detailed patterns of snow accumulation, using conventional techniques and portable radar sounders. These data sets, together with the acquired SnowSAR backscatter images, offer excellent possibilities for development and validation of forward and inversion models on radar interaction with snow.
