Satellite Imagery and Remote Sensing Methodology: Applied to Change Detection Along Fountain Creek
Abstract
Remote sensing methodology and GIS technology provide the resources needed to gain an improved understanding of the Earth as a system. Worldwide population growth and development amplify the naturally occurring changes on the Earth's surface and give birth to new types of changes. With the help of remote sensing technology, the energy radiated by surface features or reflected off the Earth's surface by the sun can be used to map the land and trace the changes that take place over time. GIS technology can then be used to integrate large amounts of image data and other related details about an area to analyze the changes and their origin. This paper discusses the methodology and analytical techniques used to process digital images with a focus on change detection processes. It also emphasizes many of the atmospheric affects that must be considered before analysis can begin or inferences can be made. In addition, a change detection analysis of a region of Fountain Creek in Colorado Springs is performed using LANDSAT TM images gathered in 1993, 1994, and 1997. The analysis provides an example of the application of many of the techniques initially discussed and also highlights the cautions that were taken to avoid false conclusions. The investigation includes the generation of change detection images produced using image algebra and change vector analysis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 17, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA356204
Entities
People
- Kristen Gilbert
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology