Empirical functional models for the maximum and minimum detectable deformation gradient of PALSAR interferometry were established based on coherence and discrete look numbers. Then, a least square regression method was used to fit the model coefficients and thus obtain the generalized functional models for both coherence and look numbers. The experimental results with ALOS PALSAR data of Wenchuan earthquake of China show that the new model works well for judging whether the deformation gradient can be detected by the D-InSAR technology or not. The results can help researchers to choose PALSAR data and to configure processing parameters, and also benefit the interpretation of the measured surface deformation.
