The technique operates on the principle that GNSS signals are reflected by the Earth's surface with a certain delay and phase shift, which can be measured and analyzed. The reflected signals contain information about the surface characteristics, such as its roughness and dielectric properties, which can be used to infer geophysical parameters. GNSSreflektometria can be performed using both ground-based and spaceborne receivers, making it a versatile tool for various applications.
One of the primary advantages of GNSSreflektometria is its ability to provide continuous and real-time measurements of Earth's surface and atmospheric properties. This makes it a valuable tool for monitoring and studying dynamic processes, such as soil moisture changes, snow accumulation, and ice sheet dynamics. Additionally, GNSSreflektometria can be used to complement other remote sensing techniques, such as radar and lidar, by providing independent measurements of surface properties.
GNSSreflektometria has been successfully applied in various fields, including hydrology, cryospheric science, and geodesy. In hydrology, the technique has been used to monitor soil moisture and snow depth, which are crucial for understanding water cycle processes and managing water resources. In cryospheric science, GNSSreflektometria has been employed to study ice sheet dynamics, glacier movement, and snow accumulation. In geodesy, the technique has been used to measure vertical land motion and improve the accuracy of GNSS positioning.
Despite its advantages, GNSSreflektometria also faces challenges, such as signal attenuation and multipath interference, which can affect the quality of the reflected signals. Additionally, the technique requires a clear line of sight between the GNSS satellites and the Earth's surface, which can be limited in certain environments, such as dense vegetation or urban areas. Ongoing research and development efforts are focused on addressing these challenges and improving the accuracy and reliability of GNSSreflektometria.