Abstract: The application of lasers in remote sensing conventionally involves a monostatic approach, with the laser and sensor nearly exactly coaligned. This arises from the practical consideration where the remote sensing platform holds both the laser and sensor in close proximity. A major problem in such a system is the calibration for retroreflection, which may amount to up to a factor of 10 above that for a diffuse ground calibration target. The amount of retroreflection peaking depends not only upon the calibration target, but also on the target to be sensed, as well as the polarization properties of the illuminating laser. The optical properties of various natural and man made calibration target materials will be discussed in the wavelength range from the ultraviolet to the near infrared. An attempt will be made to guide the user in the design of polarizing remote sensing systems to enhance contrast. !5
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