Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (D-InSAR) using ERS 1-2 and RADARSAT data has currently taken more and more interest in the scientific environment of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences for the potentiality of the method. In the field of Earth Sciences, particular interest is related to the construction of precise Digital Elevation Models and new applications such as displacement detection of earthquake, land slides and subsidence phenomena have been approached and validated.

This approach allows to combine well known advantages of radar imaging techniques, such as remote action, day and night operability, non invasive, with a maximum flexibility in terms of viewing geometry, frequency of observation, polarimetric capabilities and temporal coverage.

LISA is able to perform measurements on areas extending from few meters to few kilometres thus providing also close-in view of portions of particular interest. The frequency of observation can be selected in the range from 500 MHz to 18 GHz with fully polarimetric capabilities. Attainable spatial resolutions are in the range from tenths of centimetres to few meters while the accuracy in the measurement of displacements is in the millimetric range. Different versions of this instrument are available suitable for medium and long term monitoring but also to be operated in case of adverse environmental conditions or during emergencies when flexibility and minimum time for installation are required.