bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speckle Filtering of Stationary and Nonstationary Scene Signals in SAR Imagery
Authors: Touzi R
Published: March 2017

Speckle filtering of nonstationary scenes is studied in the context of estimation theory. It is shown that the problem can be solved separately for stationary in increments scenes, and scenes which are not locally stationary. The speckle multiplicative noise
model, the Kuan's nonstationary mean nonstationary variance (NMNV) scene model, and the speckle-scene product model are analysed, and their use for an accurate reconstruction of the underlying scene signal is discussed. A protocol is introduced for speckle filtering of stationary and non stationary
scenes. It is shown that the use of multi-resolution algorithms is crucial for a safe reconstruction of the underlying nonstationary radar cross section of the illuminated scene.
Retrieval of ocean wave spectra and RAR MTFs from dual-polarization SAR data
Authors: Engen G , Vachon P W , Johnsen H , Dobson F W
Published: March 2017

A method for the retrieval of the real aperture radar (RAR) modulation transfer function (MTF) and ocean wave spectra from dual-polarization (i.e. simultaneously acquired HH and VV polarizations) synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image data is described. The RAR MTF
is estimated by applying empirical MTF estimation methodologies to inter-look cross spectra between various combinations of individual looks and available polarizations for a given radar frequency. The concept behind the non-linear inversion is that any combination of like- and cross-polarization
image spectra should return the same wave spectrum, in agreement with in situ and model wave spectra. This permits estimation of the RAR MTF, which are shown to be inadequate for the range of conditions encountered in our data set. However, the theory and measurements fit well in describing the
polarization dependence of the RAR MTF. The data set consists of SIR-C/X-SAR, L-band and CCRS CV-580 C-band SAR data, in situ buoy measurements, and model data from field programs in Canadian waters in October and December 1994.
Canadian Progress Toward Marine and Coastal Applications of Synthetic Aperture Radar
Authors: Vachon P W , Adlakha P , Edel H , Henschel M D , Ramsay B , Flett D G , Staples G , Thomas S J
Published: March 2017

With Radarsat-1 presently in operation and Radarsat-2 approved, Canada is starting to develop synthetic aperture radar (SAR) applications that require imagery on an operational schedule.Sea ice surveillance is now a proven near-real-time application, and new
marine and coastal roles for SAR imagery are emerging. Although some image quality and calibration issues remain to be addressed, ship detection and coastal wind field retrieval are now in demonstration phases, with significant participation from the Canadian private sector.
Bay of Fundy Verification of a System for Multidate Landsat Measurement of Suspended Sediment
Authors: Munday J C , Alföldi T , Amos C L
Published: March 2017

A system for automated multidate Landsat CCT MSS measurement of suspended sediment concentration (S) has been implemented and verified on nine sets (108 point) of data from the Bay of Fundy, Canada. The system employs chromaticity analysisto provide automatic
pixel-by-pixel adjustment of atmospheric variations, permitting reference calibration data from one or several dates to be spatially and temporally extrapolated to other regions and to other dates. Correlation between a Landsat chromaticity coefficientand logeS was r = 0.965, which produced a mean
standard error of prediction of 30 percent of S. For verification, each data set was used in turn as test data against the remainder as a calibration set: the average absolute error was 44 percent of S over the range 1 < S < 1000 mg/l. Effects of sediment type and size were
negligible. The effect of solar angle was negligible except near the Brewster angle. The system can be used to measure chlorophyll (in the absence of atmospheric variations), Secchi disc depth, and turbidity. In a study related to the Fundy Tidal Power Project, S contour maps were used to initialize
and calibrate a numerical model, and were also interpreted in order to define sediment transport paths and hydrodynamic flow. Results indicate that no significant sedimentation is expected from the proposed Fundy tidal barrage during its design lifetime.
A Protocol for Speckle Filtering of SAR Images
Authors: Touzi R
Published: March 2017

Speckle filtering of SAR images that preserves the spatial signal variability (texture and fine structures) remains a challenge. Recently, research activity in this topic has become very active until the appearance of many newfilters. Filter performance
assessment mainly based on visual interpretation, is not effective in revealing hidden limitations of filters. Hence, there is an immediate need for the development of rules which permit more effective assessment. These rules could be also used as the basis for the development of new filters. In
this study, a protocol which is based on the state of the art in speckle filtering is introduced. Such protocol, which should not become an obstacle for the advancement of research in speckle filtering, might be updated according to the actual state of the art in the field. Finally, the introduced
protocol is used to assess several well-known filters, and to develop a new multi-resolution MMSE (i.e. Minimum Mean Square Error) which is much more effective than the classical MMSE filters.
RADARSAT Observations of Extreme Weather Events
Authors: Cranton J , Pultz T J , Vachon P W
Published: March 2017

Recent evidence suggests that natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods are increasing in frequency. The Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) onboard the RADARSAT satellite is being used to monitor these phenomena.
RADARSAT Doppler Centroid Estimation Using Phase-Based Estimators
Authors: Cumming I G , Wong F , Hawkins R K
Published: March 2017

Doppler Centroid (DOPCEN) estimation continues to be an important and sometimes overlooked component of SAR processing. This is especially true in the case of ScanSAR, where the estimate must be accurate to approximately 5 Hz in order to avoid radiometric
artifacts in the processed images.
 In the last 10 years, a new class of estimator has been developed based on the phase of the received signal, rather than on the spectral amplitude. The concepts were developed by Madsen, Bamler and Runge, and more recently by Wong and
Cumming. It is generally acknowledged that the phase-based estimators can be more accurate than the amplitude-based estimators, provided their limitations are understood, and they are applied properly.
 We consider the DLR (Bamler & Runge), the MLCC and the MLBF
(the latter two both Wong & Cumming). We show how their performance differs as a function of radiometric discontinuities, partially-exposed targets, noise levels, scene contrast and radar squint angle. The 3 algorithms provide different estimation accuracies with respect to each of these
data attributes.
 RADARSAT data has tighter DOPCEN estimation requirements, because of ScanSAR operation, and because of its higher noise equivalent sigma naught. We have made improvements to the existing phase-based estimators and tested their performance on RADARSAT data.

 In the paper, we will review the operation of the DOPCEN algorithms, compare their performance, and explain why it is advantageous to use an algorithm which combines features of more than one of the 3 algorithms. Finally, we describe our recommendations for a reliable,
combined algorithm.
RADARSAT-1 Image Quality - Update
Authors: Srivastava S K , Hawkins R K , Banik B , Adamovic M , Murnaghan K , Lukowski T I , Jefferies W C
Published: March 2017

The Canadian earth observation satellite, RADARSAT-1 was launched on November 4, 1995. Since then more than three years of successful operation have been completed, utilizing data for their intended applications. In this paper, we are primarily concerned with
image quality associated with the image products generated by the Canadian Data Processing Facility (CDPF) for different SAR operating beams and modes. A chronology is presented which reviews the image quality evolution of RADARSAT-1 since launch, complementing previously presented reviews on this
subject. Data will be given on various image quality parameters related to impulse response, location error, antenna pattern, and radiometric stability.
The CCRS Quicklook Swath Browser
Authors: Adair M
Published: March 2017

This paper presents the argument that there is an existing remote sensing data source that is being under-utilized in the form of quicklook browse data. This represents a large, on-line low-cost data source that could be used for scientific and non-scientific
applications. A new user interface has been developed to query the browse imagery archive at CCRS that presents the imagery as a full swath containing all data collected in a satellite acquisition segment. Given easy access to this data, it can then be geocoded and combined to create continental or
planetary scale mosaics and time-series.
Atmospheric Vortex Streets on a RADARSAT SAR Image
Authors: Li X , Clemente-Colon P , Pichel W , Vachon P W
Published: March 2017

We analyze the sea surface imprint of two atmospheric vortex streets (AVS's) observed on a RADARSAT, a Canadian earth observation satellite, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) image of the Aleutian Islands in the western Gulf of Alaska acquired on May 5, 1999. The
RADARSAT SAR instrument is operated in C-band with HH polarization. These AVS's are interpreted as the atmosphere analog of classic Von K!rm!n vortex streets. The SAR image, along with radiosonde data and surface weather charts, reveal that the AVS lengths are 196 km and 111 km for AVS-1 and AVS-2,
respectively. There are five and two pairs of vortices within each AVS. The vortex shedding period is estimated to be between 35 and 48 minutes. The vortex shedding started approximately 4.6 and 2.6 hours prior to the SAR imaging time for AVS-1 and AVS-2, respectively. There are seven and three
pairs of vortices within the respective AVS's. The vortex tangential velocity is estimated to be between 1.7 and 2.3 m/s and the energy dissipated during the vortex lifetime is estimated to be between 24.9 and 23.6 J/m 3
.
Spectral Unmixing Applied to Vegetated Environments in the Canadian Arctic for Mineral Mapping
Authors: Staenz K , Nadeau C , Secker J , Budkewitsch P
Published: March 2017

This paper shows preliminary results of mineral mapping under moderate tundra vegetation cover in an arctic environment. The data analysis including recalibration, atmospheric correction, automatic endmember extraction, and constrained linear spectral unmixing
was applied to two hyperspectral image cubes acquired with the Probe-1 sensor over a test site in the Povungnituk Range in Northern Quebec, Canada. The mapping results indicate that different rock units (gabbro, basalt) could be identified successfully. However, the analysis also shows that the
following factors impede the extraction of rock units: Lichen cover masks the reflectance of rock units, and sensor viewing angle and terrain influence the spectral signature (bidirectional reflectance). Ground reference information such as reference spectra of different target types, acquired
during the data collection, were used to validate the unmixing results.
Influence of Ionospheric Electron Density Fluctuations on Satellite Radar Interferometry
Authors: Gray A L , Mattar K E
Published: March 2017

Evidence is presented that auroral zone ionospheric disturbances can influence satellite radar interferometry (SRI) obtained with the RADARSAT, ERS and JERS-1 satellites. Fluctuations in ionospheric electron density can lead to an azimuth shift modulation in
synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery, which can be detected using SRI. Measurements of azimuth shift in SRI can help to differentiate ionospheric from tropospheric propagation problems, and to understand better the impact of the ionosphere on spaceborne SAR. Further, SRI azimuth shift modulation
may be useful in mapping patterns of polar auroral zone ionospheric disturbances over large distances.
Radiative Transfer Codes Applied to Hyperspectral Data for the Retrieval of Surface Reflectance
Authors: Staenz K , Secker J , Gao B -C , Davis C
Published: March 2017

The present investigation evaluates surface reflectance retrieved from Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) and Compact Airborne Spectrographic Imager (casiTM) data using the atmospheric radiative transfer (RT) codes: ATREM, CAM5S, and
MODTRAN4. The retrieved surface reflectances were compared with ground-based reflectances acquired with a GER3700TM spectroradiometer for a playa and canola target. The results showed that the best overall performance was achieved with MODTRAN4, followed by ATREM and CAM5S. Major differences occur
in the stronger gas absorption regions. At wavelengths unaffected by strong gaseous absorption, the performance was similar for the three RT codes even though ATREM and CAM5S have faster execution times.
Data Quality Requirements for Future SAR
Authors: Hawkins R K , Touzi R , Vachon P W , Gibson J R , van der Kooij M
Published: March 2017

SAR users have varying data quality requirements. It is their demands, market share, and strategic importance that ultimately dictate many fundamental engineering decisions for the design of the sensor and supporting ground segment. In this paper, we outline some
considerations for the overall data quality requirements for future SAR systems, assuming that these missions will include imaging capabilities for applications with polarimetric, interferometric, and more traditional SAR modes that include single channels and/or single and multiple beams.
Specifically, we draw from our experience with a number of existing SARs including ERS-1, ERS-2, J-ERS-1, and RADARSAT-1 to explore basic data quality issues that affect the geometric, radiometric, and interferometric (or phase) fidelity of products, and ultimately the reliability of the information
products generated from them. These observations have implications on the design of satellite and ground segment components for future SARs such as ENVISAT and RADARSAT-2.
Data in Jeopardy
Authors: Fadaie K , Milne T , Varma H P , Harding J , Macnab R , Gareau P , O'Brien D
Published: March 2017

During the last 30 years, there has been a serious neglect of the information base stored within our data holdings.
 In the 1800's data was stored in media such as books, which had encapsulated indexes, meta information, versioning and
data. The media, paper, was stable and could be opened up a hundred years later and the information could still be retrieved. Due in large part to rapid technology shifts and the lack of appropriate international standards, this is no longer the case.
 For the past 30 years,
technology shifts have created serious problems in large data repositories. The constant change of storage media from punched cards, to paper tape to 800 BPI magnetic tapes, to cartridges, to magnetic disks, to optical media etc. has resulted in major problems for very large data archives. The
hardware and software required to read the old media may not be available in a hundred years, leaving the entire information base in a crisis state.
 The technology providers also constantly change application software to store and read data. These changes are sometimes
implemented within the space of six months, such as in GIS and Wordprocessing software applications. The software is not always backward compatible due to the encapsulation of proprietary file architectures, algorithms and smart compression. These file architectures, algorithms, compression or
otherwise, may not be available if the company should ever go out of business or radically change the application domain.
 There is an urgent need to stabilize the storage data structures to some open international standard for long term archival. If not, the large data
holdings will be in jeopardy - not in a hundred years but in less then ten years.
 A generic storage mechanism, SDS (Self Defining Structure), has been proposed to the ISOTC211 WG1 under the guidance of the Image and Gridded Data Working Group. This paper addresses problems
encountered in the state of the data sets used for Canada's Law of the Sea project and possible solutions using SDS (Self Defining Structures) and distributed archives.
A Framework for In-Situ Sensor Measurement Assimilation in Remote Sensing Applications
Authors: Teillet P M , Dudelzak A E , Pultz T J , McNairn H , Chichagov A
Published: March 2017

An In-Situ Sensor Measurement Assimilation Program is being established at the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing. This paper highlights the goals and general framework of this new, strategic initiative. The
in-situ sensing framework is illustrated conceptually in the context of three remote sensing applications. The paper also looks ahead to the use of sensor webs and sensor pods, as technology moves towards the concept of a global virtual
presence.
Estimation of Crop Cover and Chlorophyll from Hyperspectral Remote Sensing
Authors: McNairn H , Deguise J -C , Pacheco A , Shang J , Rabe N
Published: March 2017

Over the last two decades, there has been extensive development in hyperspectral remote sensing. Interest is rapidly growing in the application of hyperspectral data to precision farming. This paper investigates the potential of hyperspectral remote sensing data
for providing crop information for use in precision farming. Ground measurements and airborne hyperspectral Probe-1 data were simultaneously acquired in July 1999 near Clinton, Ontario, Canada. Specifically, percent ground cover and chlorophyll estimations derived from the Probe-1 data are being
validated. Constrained linear unmixing was conducted on the airborne hyperspectral surface reflectance and at-sensor radiance data to determine crop endmember fractions. Chlorophyll maps were generated from Probe-1 reflectance data using three different methods. Correlations between ground data and
Probe-1 derived image products were significant and produced encouraging results. Although based on a limited range of chlorophyll values available in this study, Probe-1 derived chlorophyll index values were sensitive to differences in SPAD-502 measurements taken in the field. Crop ground cover was
significantly correlated with spectral fractions derived from the radiance or the reflectance data.
Error Tracking in IKONOS Geometric Processing Using a 3D Parametric Modelling
Authors: Toutin Th
Published: March 2017

Thirteen panchromatic (Pan) and multiband (XS) IKONOS Geo-product images over seven study sites with various environments and terrain were tested using different cartographic data and accuracies with a 3D parametric model developed at the Canada Centre for Remote
Sensing, Natural Resources Canada. The objectives of this study were to define the relationship between the final accuracy and the number and accuracy of input data, to track error propagation during the full geometric correction process (bundle adjustment and ortho-rectification), and to advise on
the applicability of the model in operational environments.
 When ground control points (GCPs) have an accuracy poorer than 3 m, 20 GCPs over the entire image is a good compromise to obtain a 3- to 4-m accuracy in the bundle adjustment. When GCP accuracy is better than 1 m,
10 GCPs are enough to decrease the bundle adjustment error of either panchromatic or multiband images to 2-3 m. Because GCP residuals reflect the input data errors (map and/or plotting) these errors did not propagate through the 3D parametric model, and the internal accuracy of the geometric model
is thus better (around a pixel or less). Quantitative and qualitative evaluations of ortho images were thus performed with either independent check points or overlaid digital vector files. Generally, the measured errors confirmed the predicted errors or even were slightly better, and 2-4 m
positioning accuracy was achieved for the ortho images depending upon the elevation accuracy (DEM and grid spacing). To achieve a better final positioning accuracy, such as 1 m, a 1-2 m accurate DEM with fine grid spacing is required in addition to well-defined GCPs with an accuracy of 1
m.
Applications potential of RADARSAT-2 - a preview
Authors: van der Sanden J J , Ross S G , Budkewitsch P , Flett D G , Gray A L , Hawkins R K , Landry R , Lukowski T I , McNairn H , Pultz T
J , Singhroy V , Sokol J , Toutin T , Touzi R , Vachon P W , van der Sanden J J
Published: March 2017

This report describes the state-of-the-art with respect to the extraction of information from RADARSAT-2 type Synthetic Aperture Radar data for 32 applications in fields of agriculture, cartography, disaster management, forestry, geology, hydrology, oceans, and
sea and land ice. As such, the report offers a preview of the application potential associated with the data products from the future RADARSAT-2 satellite. In addition, it facilitates the identification of application fields and information extraction techniques that require further research and
development. In terms of application potential, the report focuses on an assessment of the data information content. Comparison of the ratings for the overall application potential of RADARSAT-1 and -2 shows that the biggest improvement is projected to be associated with the crop type, crop
condition and sea ice topography / structure fields. This is primarily the result of the enhancement of RADARSAT-2 in terms of polarization. For 18 out of the 32 application fields considered the introduction of RADARSAT-2 is expected to result in a modest increase in application potential. The
application potential for 10 fields is projected to remain unchanged. The recommendations for applications research and development focus on the new RADARSAT-2 data products. A widespread lack of understanding with regard to the relationship between the image information content and the polarization
of the radar signal is identified. The report is based on first-hand experience of applications specialists at the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing and the Canadian Ice Service as well as on findings that other researchers have published in the literature. It constitutes one of the first results of
the RADARSAT-2 Applications Development Programme. This programme is led by the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing and financed by the Canadian Space Agency with Canadian Space Plan funds.
Block Adjustement of Landsat-7 ETM+ Images
Authors: Toutin Th , Carbonneau Y , Chénier R
Published: March 2017

This research study shows the potential of large image-block adjustment with nadir viewing sensor images. The method uses the geometric correction system developed for multi-source images at the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing. The results with 15 Landsat-7 ETM+
images show that the same accuracy can be obtained with a large image block than with a single image using the same number of ground control points (GCPs). The number of GCPs depends on cartographic data accuracy to reduce the propagation of GCP error in the least-square block adjustment. To insure
consistency and convergence in the block adjustment, strips of same-path and date images has to be generated. Furthermore, elevation tie points (with known elevation value) are used in the overlaps (North-South and East-West) because the viewing-angle differences of overlapping images are small:
less than 1º in North-South overlaps and less than 10º in East-West overlaps.
RADARSAT Interferometry for Antarctic Grounding-Zone Mapping
Authors: Gray A L , Short N , Bindschadler R , Joughin I , Padman L , Vornberger P , Khananian A
Published: March 2017

Satellite radar interferometry (SRI) is used to provide new information on grounding zones in areas of the eastern Ross Ice Shelf and the Filchner Ice Shelf. At the times of the RADARSAT SRI passes, separated by 24 days, a tidal model predicts a change in
vertical displacement of the freely floating ice of greater than 1 m in both areas. The change in vertical position occurs over a 5 - 10 km flexure zone adjacent to the grounding line and would lead to a relatively high interferometric phase fringe rate. This was observed in some areas and suitable
imagery have been used to map the grounding zone position to an estimated accuracy of 1-2 km. Results for the 'ice plain' area upstream of the Crary Ice Rise are consistent with the tidal model and improve the previous grounding line estimates based on field surveys and SPOT data. The results
support the suggestion of increased ice grounding in this area, and show that a sub-ice shelf water channel around the southern end of the Crary Ice Rise is unlikely. Results for the Filchner Ice Shelf also show that existing maps of the grounding zone can be refined. In particular, we identify a
large ice rise close to the mouth of the Bailey Ice Stream.
RADARSAT-1 for Monitoring Vector-borne Diseases in Tropical Environments: A Review
Authors: Ross S G , Thomson M C , Pultz T
Published: March 2017

The incidence and spread of vector-borne infectious disease is an increasing concern in many parts of the world, especially tropical areas. Earth observation techniques are becoming a recognised means of monitoring and mapping disease risk, and have proven useful
in associating environmental indicators with various disease and their vectors. Geographically, the areas that bare the burden of infectious disease are often remote and not easily monitored using traditional, labour intensive survey techniques. High spatial and temporal coverage provided by
spaceborne sensors allows for the investigation of large areas in a timely manner. Since the majority of infectious diseases occur in topical areas, however, one of the main barriers to earth observation techniques is high cloud-cover. Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology offers a solution to
this problem by providing all-weather, day and night imaging capability. RADARSAT- 1, Canada's first Earth observation satellite is being used operationally for many applications, including flood monitoring, land cover mapping and disaster management. This paper will discuss several SAR
remote-sensing applications and consider the potential of RADARSAT-1 for disease monitoring applications.
Large area Land Cover Mapping Through Scene-Based Classification Compositing
Authors: Guindon B , Edmonds C M
Published: March 2017

Over the past decade, a number of initiatives have been undertaken to create definitive national and global data sets consisting of precision corrected Landsat Multispectral Scanner [MSS) and Thematic Mapper (TM) scenes. One important application of these data is
the derivation of large area landcover products spanning multiple satellite scenes. A popular approach to land-cover mapping on this scale involves merging constituent scenes into image mosaics prior to image clustering and cluster labeling, thereby eliminating redundant geographic coverage arising
from overlapping imaging swaths of adjacent orbital tracks. In this paper, arguments are presented to support the view that areas of overlapping coverage contain important information that can be used to assess and
improve classification performance. A methodology is presented for the creation of large area land-cover products through the compositing of independently classified scenes. Statistical analyses of classification consistency between scenes in overlapping regions are employed both to identify
mislabeled clusters and to provide a measure of classification confidence for each scene at the cluster level. During classification compositing, confidence measures are used to rationalize conflicting classifications in overlap regions and
to create a relative confidence layer, sampled at the pixel level, which characterizes the spatial variation in classification quality over the final product. The procedure is illustrated with results from a synoptic mapping project of the Great Lakes watershed that involved the classification and
compositing of 46 Landsat MSS scenes.
Validation of a Hyperspectral Curve-Fitting Technique for Mapping Crop Water Status
Authors: Champagne C , Bannari A , Staenz K , Deguise J
-C , McNairn H
Published: March 2017

The estimation of plant water status is an essential component of precision crop management, and is directly related to plant physiological processes and ultimately crop yield. Hyperspectral models developed to estimate plant water content have met with limited
success and have not been rigorously validated. A spectrum matching technique was applied to the hyperspectral data to directly calculate the canopy equivalent water thickness (EWT) using a look-up table approach. The objective of this study was to test the validity of this algorithm using crop
water status information collected on the ground. Data were acquired over an experimental test site near Indian Head, Saskatchewan using the Probe-1 airborne hyperspectral sensor. Plant biomass samples were collected simultaneously from 96 plots spanning eight fields of various crop types (wheat,
canola, and peas). The model was validated against EWT estimated from biomass samples as well as more conventional measures of crop water status. Results indicate that the liquid water retrieval technique can be used to estimate crop water status for broad-leafed crops such as peas and canola, but
is not a reliable estimator of wheat this early stage of vegetative growth. This may be related to the low level of water in the crop and the contribution of soil to the reflectance signal.
Multisource Data Integration: Comparison of Geometric and Radiometric Methods
Authors: Toutin Th
Published: March 2017

Multisource data integration requires geometric and radiometric processing adapted to the nature and characteristics of the data in order to keep the best information from each image in the composite image. This article compares different geometric and
radiometric processing techniques and evaluates, quantitatively and qualitatively, their impact on the resulting composite images, using panchromatic SPOT and airborne SAR images. The techniques that take into account the nature of the data give better results, with greater integrity: subpixel
geometric accuracy and high-quality composite images which are sharp and precise, containing well-defined cartographic elements and data that are easy to interpret and closer to physical reality.
Preliminary Investigation of Acid Mine Drainage Detection Using casi Data, Copper Cliff, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Shang J , Lévesque J , Howarth P J , Morris B , Staenz K , Yearwood P
Published: March 2017

The environmental impact of mine tailings is a nation-wide problem in Canada. Mine tailings affect the environment primarily through acid mine drainage (AMD). AMD contains toxic concentrations of metals and dissolved salts which can contaminate ground and surface
water. There is a clear need for monitoring mine-tailing sites in order to ensure that damage to the environment is kept to a minimum. The availability of high spatial resolution hyperspectral airborne imagery, acquired by sensors such as the Compact Airborne Spectrographic Imager
(casi), has greatly improved the potential for automated mapping of mine tailings. In this paper, we investigate the potential of casi data for use in AMD detection. Both constrained and unconstrained linear spectral unmixing was performed on summer
1998 casi data acquired over the Copper Cliff tailings area in Ontario, Canada. Preliminary results show that spectral unmixing of casi data can provide valuable information on the occurrence of AMD.
Recent advancements in optical field leaf area index, foliage heterogeneity, and foliage angular distribution measurements
Authors: Leblanc S G , Fernandes R , Chen J
M
Published: March 2017

In-situ estimations of leaf area index (LAI), leaf clumping, and leaf angular distribution are often performed from canopy gap fraction measurements with optical sensors. Two new procedures are used in this study to improve the estimation of gap fraction from
digital camera photographs,: 1) the Digital Number (DN) of mixed sky-canopy pixels is use to estimate the within pixel gap fraction instead of the usual threshold used to separate a pixel in gap or a foliage pixel, and 2), the within pixel gap fraction is calculated at different view zenith and
azimuth angles to take into account multiple scattering effects. To estimate foliage clumping, a gap size distribution is calculated from a narrow view zenith angle range (less than 1°). The clumping index is then extracted using 3 methods: 1) a refined gap size distribution theory developed
for the TRAC instruments; 2) The Lang and Xiang logarithm gap fraction averaging and 3) a combination of 1) and 2). Clumping index variations with view zenith angle in the range from 15° to 70° are derived using the individual and combined methods. Analysis of the digital hemispherical
photographs shows that 1) the three methods give different clumping estimates, but the angular variation patterns are similar, and 2) canopies with significant angular variation in clumping can induce large errors in the inverted leaf angle distribution when the clumping angular variation is not
included in the retrieval. The practical implication of these findings is that LAI, clumping index, and foliage orientation can all be reliably retrieved using digital hemispherical photographs, considerably reducing the number and cost of instruments needed in fieldwork.
The Sensitivity of C-Band Polarimetric SAR to Crop Condition
Authors: McNairn H , Decker V , Murnaghan K
Published: March 2017

The Canada Centre for Remote Sensing conducted an intensive field campaign in 2000 at an agricultural test site at Indian Head, Saskatchewan (Canada). Airborne C-Band fully polarimetric SAR data were acquired over the site. The supporting ground information is
being used to establish the sensitivity of several polarimetric parameters to variations in crop condition. Preliminary results suggest that several polarizations are sensitive to variations in crop growth and crop stress, particularly in small grain crops like wheat. Information on crop growth
gathered from sensors, like RADARSAT-2, could aid in strategies to better manage nutrient applications on agricultural fields.
Left- and Right-Looking RADARSAT-2 Data for Mosaics of Ancient Supercontinents
Authors: Gauthier E , Budkewitsch P , D'Iorio M , Pellon de
Miranda F
Published: March 2017

The Pangaea supercontinent began its break-up some 200 Ma ago, during which time the ancient cratons of West Africa and San Francisco-Congo of Gondwana were rifted apart. These older parts of the continental crust now reside in the African and South American
Shields, but share a common geological past. Geological maps of reconstructed Pangaea aid geologists to understand the tectonic history of the evolving Earth, the global distribution of rock units and ore deposits. It follows that radar and other remotely sensed images of Earth can be mosaicked in
the same fashion to provide supplementary information in support of such investigation.
 In our radar mosaic for part of Gondwana, left-looking RADARSAT-1 data of west Africa acquired on ascending passes during the Antarctic Mapping Mission and normal mode (right-looking)
data of South America from descending passes were first seamed together separately. The two continental image maps were then rotated into their pre-break-up configuration to create a radar mosaic with a relatively consistent westward radar look. This critical aspect of the mosaic would not be
possible from a SAR system without left- and right-looking capability. A consistent look direction is of great importance when landform interpretations are made. The left and right pointing of the RADARSAT-2 antenna will enable routine data collection of this kind for similar
studies.
RADARSAT-2; Are its Technical Capabilities Expected to Provide Potential for Remote Sensing Applications
Authors: van der Sanden J J , Budkewitsch P , Flett D , Gray A L , Hawkins R K , Landry R , Lukowski T
I , McNairn H , Pultz T
J , Singhroy V , Sokol J , Toutin Th , Touzi R , Vachon P W
Published: March 2017

In this paper, we preview and demonstrate how the technical improvements included in RADARSAT-2 will impact the system's potential utility for 32 applications in the fields of agriculture, cartography, disaster management, forestry, geology, hydrology, oceans,
and sea and land ice.
3D Models for High Resolution Images: Examples with Quickbird, IKONOS, and EROS
Authors: Toutin Th , Chénier R , Carbonneau Y
Published: March 2017

EROS, IKONOS and Quickbird are the three civilian satellites, which presently provide panchromatic images with the highest spatial resolution: 2-m, 1-m and 0.6-m, respectively. They also have off-nadir viewing up-to-60º in any azimuth depending on the
sensor, which enables stereo images (along and across track) to be acquired. However, the image acquisition system produces different geometric distortions, which need to be accurately corrected. The paper reviews the image distortions and the different 3D models (non-parametric and parametric) for
the geometric processing with their applicability to high-resolution images depending on the type of images and their pre-processing level. Results are then presented with stereo images for the three sensors using different 3D models. In general, the 3D parametric models achieve more consistent
results.
Synthetic Aperture Radar for Search and Rescue: Evaluation of Advanced Capabilities in Preparation for RADARSAT-2
Authors: Lukowski T I , Khellah F , Charbonneau F , Yue B
Published: March 2017

Researchers at the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing of Natural Resources Canada are exploring the use of remotely sensed imagery to assist Search and Rescue in Canada. Studies have been examining the use of Synthetic Aperture Radar for the detection of crashed
aircraft. Promising results have been obtained with techniques for detection of dihedrals in interferometric and polarimetric data. With further development in technologies and techniques, and improved coverage of the Canadian landmass by future spaceborne systems such as RADARSAT-2, it is expected
that it will be possible to assist in Search and Rescue for land targets.
Derivation of Land Cover Continuous Fields over Canada from SPOT-VGT Imagery
Authors: Fernandes R A , Latifovic R , Fraser R
Published: March 2017

Recent comparisons of coarse (1 km) and fine (30m) resolution land cover maps across Canada indicate that single cover types rarely occupy more than 40% of a 1km pixel in forested areas. To address this aggregation problem we develop and apply a method for
estimating continuous fields of vegetation structural characteristics using 1km resolution SPOT-VEGETATION (VGT) imagery. A sample of Landsat TM and ETM+ scenes stratified by ecozone is classified using a standard methodology to generate spatially distributed calibration centres. Neural networks,
look-up-table labelling, and regression resulted in biases as large as 35% when calibrated using centers over 400km away. Only the linear least squares inversion approach produce a bias under 20%. An estimator based on a linear mixture model regularised by the a
prior continuous field distribution over the calibration centres is developed. The regularisation parameter is defined by the spectral and spatial similarity of VGT reflectances between calibration centres and the regions being mapped. A strategy for mapping and validating
Canada wide continuous fields using this method is described.
Towards Integrated Earth Sensing: From Space to In Situ
Authors: Teillet P M
Published: March 2017

Significant advancements in Earth observation are expected to come about by developing more systematic capabilities for assimilating remote sensing observations and in-situ measurements for use in models, at
relevant scales, to generate geophysical and biospheric information products. This paper provides an overview of the role of in-situ sensing in the context of integrated Earth sensing. The knowledge gleaned from integrated Earth sensing has the
potential to empower managers and decision makers to act on critical climate, sustainable development, natural resource, and environmental issues. The paper describes a prototype wireless intelligent sensorweb deployed in a flood-forecasting context.
Synthetic Aperture Radar for Search and Rescue: Studies at Natural Resources Canada-Update
Authors: Lukowski T I , Yue B
Published: March 2017

The use of Synthetic Aperture Radar to assist Search and Rescue in the location of downed airplanes is being explored in studies at Natural Resources Canada (Canada Centre for Remote Sensing). Test imagery in polarimetric mode is being acquired by the C-SAR on
board the Environment Canada Convair-580. This paper discusses algorithm studies and recent results.
A Soil Moisture Monitoring Sensorweb Demonstration in the Context of Integrated Earth Sensing
Authors: Teillet P M , Gauthier R P , Fedosejevs G , Maloley M , Chichagov A , Ainsley G
Published: March 2017

This paper describes work towards building an integrated Earth sensing capability, in particular the demonstration of a prototype in-situ sensorweb in autonomous remote operation in the context of soil moisture monitoring. A five-node prototype sensorweb was
deployed and tested at Bratt's Lake Station in Saskatchewan. The sensorweb operated autonomously and standard meteorological parameters and soil moisture measurements were accessed remotely via satellite from the Integrated Earth Sensing Workstation (IESW) at the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing in
Ottawa. The paper reports on the prototype sensorweb deployment in general and on soil moisture measurements in particular.
Block bundle adjustment of Landsat-7 ETM+ images over mountainous areas
Authors: Toutin Th
Published: March 2017

This research study showed the potential of block bundle adjustment with nadir viewing sensor images, such as Landsat-7 ETM+. The method is based on the 3D analytical geometric model developed for multi-sensor images at the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing,
Natural Resources Canada. Different block sizes and configurations were tested and compared using image bundle adjustment. The different tests using fifteen Landsat-7 ETM+ images (five paths and three rows) acquired over a study site in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, showed that the same results
(around 25 m errors) could be obtained with image blocks as with a single image using a largely reduced number of ground control points (GCPs). However, the combined image measurement and map errors of GCPs were included in the final error budget and the internal accuracy of the blocks should be
better (around one pixel or less). The number of GCPs to be used depended mainly on the cartographic data accuracy: more GCPs than the minimum required reduced the error propagation in the least-squares block bundle adjustment. In addition, tie points with a known elevation value (elevation tie
points, ETPs) instead of normal tie points were used to link the adjacent images/strips (North-South and East-West) because the viewing-angle differences of overlapping images were smaller than 1º in North-South overlaps and around 10º in East-West overlaps. Better and more consistent
results were also obtained using strips of images in the blocks acquired from the same orbit and date instead of using independent images. Finally, using only GCPs in the outer strips/images and ETPs in each overlap achieved the same results (25-m errors).
Applications potential of RADARSAT-2 - supplement one
Authors: van der Sanden J J , Thomas S J , Charbonneau F , DeAbreu R , Du Y , Farhat M , Hawkins R K , Livingstone C , Lukowski T I , McNairn H , Scheuchl B , Singhroy V , Toutin T , Touzi R , Vachon P W , van der Sanden J J
Published: March 2017

This report is the first supplement to the report entitled Applications Potential of RADARSAT-2 - A Preview (van der Sanden and Ross, 2001). The document discusses and demonstrates new results from case studies examining the extraction of information from
RADARSAT-2 type Synthetic Aperture Radar data for applications in the fields of agriculture, cartography, disaster management, geology, coastal zones and oceans, and sea ice. This includes promising results of limited research into techniques for data fusion and the applicability of products in
which RADARSAT-2 type data are fused with data from other remote sensing sources. In addition, the report introduces selected software tools for use with RADARSAT-1 and/or polarimetric SAR data. The results presented contribute to an updated assessment of a) the effect of the most important
technical enhancements of RADARSAT-2 on the data information content and b) the applications potential of RADARSAT-2 relative to RADARSAT-1. The applicability of RADARSAT-2 data is anticipated to improve in a major, moderate, and minor fashion for 3, 18, and 10 of the identified applications,
respectively. The recommendations emphasize a need for research and development (R&D) leading to an improved understanding of image information content as a function of polarization. This R&D is advised to focus on applications that hold the most promise for operational use of
RADARSAT-2 products. The report is based on first-hand experience of applications specialists at the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing (CCRS), the Canadian Ice Service (CIS), MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) and the Defence Research Establishment Canada (DRDC) - Ottawa. This report is an
output of the RADARSAT-2 Applications Development Programme, which is led by the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing and financed by the Canadian Space Agency with Canadian Space Plan funds.
Study of well logs in the Arctic Islands to outline permafrost thickness and/or gas hydrate occurrence
Authors:   Hardy Associates (1978) Limited
Published: March 2017

The report outlines the distribution of permafrost and gas hydrates as determined from conventional well logs run in 151 wells in the Arctic Islands. Ice-bearing permafrost is interpreted to exist on land to depths ranging from 131 m to 860 m. Although it is also
observed in the offshore the data is inadequate to map the occurrence accurately. Natural gas hydrates are interpreted in 90 of the 151 wells to depths of 1923 m.
Schefferville permafrost research, volume I: parts 1a and 1b, summary, review and recommendations, and catalogue of available materials
Authors: Granberg H B , Lewis J E , Moore T R , Steer P , Wright R
K
Published: March 2017

The report forms a part of an attempt to collect, collate and synthesize the information on permafrost in the Schefferville area deriving from 25 years of open- pit mining by the Iron Ore Company of Canada and from research projects conducted by the McGill
Sub-Arctic Research Laboratory. The Open-File here contains Volume I, the summary, review and catalogue of materials available currently in the total collection comprising 25 volumes. The remaining material will be made available in microfiche form to potential research
users.
Laboratory and field studies to investigate isotope effects occurring during the formation of permafrost - phase III
Authors: Michel F , Fritz P
Published: March 2017

Field and laboratory studies of oxygen and hydrogen isotopes were continued. Observations from the Illisarvik drained lake site have yielded important constraints on the lake history and the role of .migrating moisture in the underlying permafrost. Laboratory
studies of freezing columns have demonstrated fractionation at the freezing front but by only half of that predicted. The implications for isotope profiles with depth are discussed.
Hydraulic fracturing of rock masses: influence of preexisting discontinuities, phase I.
Authors: Roegiers J C , Wiles T D
Published: March 2017

The behaviour of a propagating hydraulic fracture as it approaches an interface is discussed. The role of fracture mechanics in hydraulic fracture propagation is first reviewed to provide a sound basis for further analyses. The problem of a well bonded bimaterial
interface is reviewed and it is found that previously conducted analyses are not applicable. Fracture mechanics principles are reapplied to this problem and results which tend to agree with observed behaviour are found. The problem of a frictional interface is analysed. It is found that fracture
arrest can be expected under certain stress conditions. The results are in general agreement with observed behaviour.