Satellite remote sensing applications for landslide detection and monitoring

Abstract

This paper provides a brief overview of the application potential of EO images related to landslides mapping and monitoring. Our challenge is to recognize and interpret the detailed geomorphic characteristics of large and small landslides, and determine whether or not failure is likely to occur. It is clear from the examples provided that remote sensing images are increasingly being used because applications are becoming more convincing relative to traditional mapping and monitoring methods. The examples shows that current high resolution stereo SAR and optical images are producing multi scale landslide inventory maps to improve mitigation. The availability of less than 3-m resolution stereo images from SAR and optical are providing, near air photo type geomorphic information on slopes, for more reliable landslide inventory maps. Landslide prediction will remain complex and difficult even with ground monitoring techniques. Our examples have shown that InSAR results are complementary data sources relative to ground based observations, and are especially useful where other data sources are limited over large areas. Detail deformation maps produced from InSAR techniques are assisting in more accurate slope stability studies. When the acquisition and ground conditions are correct, SAR interferometry is a useful tool for detecting and monitoring mass movement and thus is able to contribute to the assessment and mitigation of landslide hazards. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2009.