bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intensity-Hue-Saturation Colour Display Transform for Hyperspectral Data
Authors: Beauchemin M , Fung K B
Published: March 2017

A technique for producing consistent colour composites from hyperspectral data is presented. It is based on the intensity-hue-saturation (HIS) colour transform, a model related to the human perception of colours. The method is simple and robust. The ordinary
moment (order zero) of the spectral distribution is assigned to the Intensity component - the perceived luminance. The center of gravity of the distribution is used for the Hue component - the dominant wavelength or colour. Finally, the fraction of the total flux (Intensity) inside a window of a
predefined width centered at the Hue (center of gravity) is taken as the Saturation - the purity of the dominant wavelength. A saturation measure derived from variance is also considered, providing a full moment-based IHS transform. Each component is linearly stretched for contrast enhancement and
projected to the RGB colour space using the hexcone model. The method is illustrated with a casi (Compact Airborne Spectrographic Imager) image. Further tests are needed to evaluate the potentials of the method for diversified landscapes and different sensor configurations.
Passive and Active Airborne Microwave Remote Sensing of Snow Cover
Authors: Sokol J , Pultz T J , Walker A E
Published: March 2017

The presence of snow cover affects the regional energy and water balance, thus having a significant impact on the global climate system. Temporal knowledge of the onset of snow melt and snow water equivalent values are important variables in the prediction of
flooding and water resource applications such as reservoir management and agricultural activities. Microwave remote sensing techniques have been demonstrated to be effective for monitoring snow pack parameters (areal extent, depth, water equivalent, wet/dry state). Microwave sensors have all weather
imaging capabilities and are sensitive to changes in the dielectric constant within a snow pack.
 Coincident airborne polarimetric C-band SAR and microwave radiometer data at 19, 37, and 85 GHz were collected on December 1, 1997, March 6, 1998, and March 12, 1998, over the
study are in Eastern Ontario, Canada. Field measurements of snow pack properties and weather conditions were gathered along flight lines on bare agriculture fields during each airborne data acquisition. The multi-temporal, multi-sensor data were analyzed with respect to changes in the SAR
polarimetric signatures and microwave brightness temperatures as a function of changing snow pack parameters. This paper will present the results of the investigation comparing SAR and passive microwave values of derived snow parameters. This research initiative is a collaborative investigation
between Atmospheric Environment Service (AES) and the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing (CCRS).
Compact Airborne Spectrographic Imager (CASI) Used for Mapping LAI of Cropland
Authors: Leblanc S G , Chen J M , Miller J R , Freemantle J
Published: March 2017

During the BOReal Ecosystem-Atmosphere Study (BOREAS), which took place in Saskatchewan and Manitoba in 1994 and 1996, the Compact Airborne Spectrographic Imager (CASI) acquired images of different surfaces including croplands and boreal forests. In this paper,
we present an analysis of CASI data against ground measurements of leaf area index (LAI) for croplands. Processed individual CASI bands from different crops and fields are combined and show that: (1) the blue band reflectance of cropland decreases with LAI; (2) the red band reflectance shows a
weaker and more scattered decreasing trend with LAI than the blue band; and (3) the near-infrared (NIR) band reflectance reaches a plateau at a LAI of one. It is also shown that the response of vegetation indices based on the red and NIR bands, such as the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index
(NDVI), to LAI is weak, although the Simple Ratio shows a stronger, but more scattered, linear increase with LAI that the NDVI. Comparisons with similar studies of vegetation indices and LAI for cropland and forested areas are presented.
Agricultural Applications of Airborne Hyperspectral Data: Weed Detection
Authors: Deguise J -C , Staenz K , Lefebvre J
Published: March 2017

Weed infestation in commercial crops in Canada is a major problem to producers. To help the reduction of the amount of herbicides used for the control of weeds, the potential of high spatial resolution airborne hyperspectral data was exploited for the detection
of weeds in a crop of canola. Both manual and automatic endmember selection approaches were used to extract the weed endmember spectrum from the image cube. Results obtained from constrained linear spectral unmixing using this endmember are discussed.
A Vicarious Calibration of the Probe-1 Hyperspectral Sensor
Authors: Secker J , Staenz K , Budkewitsch P , Neville R
A
Published: March 2017

Analysis of Probe-1 hyperspectral data obtained during July 1998 revealed that neither the spectroscopic nor the radiometric laboratory calibrations supplied with the data were applicable, presumably because the sensor had suffered an undocumented opto-mechanical
realignment between the calibration and the flight. In this paper the calculation of a new set of calibration coefficients is described, based upon the simultaneous acquisition of high-resolution GER3700 field spectra for a calibration site within the Probe-1 image. For the calibration calculations,
an average ground-based reflectance spectrum for the target area was convolved and resampled to match the spectral characteristics of the Probe-1 sensor. The MODTRAN3 radiative-transfer code was used to correct the Probe-1 radiance spectra to surface reflectance, and an iterative numerical technique
was applied to adjust the Probe-1 radiometric coefficients, to reduce the absolute reflectance difference between the GER3700 and Probe-1 spectra for the calibration site to 0.02 percent. This technique for the vicarious calibration of hyperspectral data has been implemented into the Imaging
Spectrometer and Data Analysis System developed at the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing (CCRS).
Acquisition semi-automatique de points d'appui sur un couple d'images stereoscopiques
Authors: Toutin Th
Published: March 2017

A semi-automatic method of collecting ground control points for an image pair is presented. After the control points are identified in the reference images, the automatic correlation function searches for the conjugate image points. The points are then
validated using real-world coordinates. To make the method operational, another validation is performed using the geometric correction model. Depending on the desired degree of accuracy, the user can then decide on the number of control points and whether to accept or reject them, and can even
redetermine certain points in stereo.
Quantifying the Spatial Distribution of Evapotranspiration with Satellite Data
Authors: Liu J , Chen J M , Cihlar J , Chen W , Pavlic G
Published: March 2017

Evapotranspiration (ET) is the sum of water vapor fluxes from transpiration of leaves and evaporation from the soil and from wet leaves. It is not only closely related to plant growth and carbon uptake but also an important hydrological component affecting
runoff, ground water and atmospheric circulation. ET magnitude and variability are of key concern in climate change research. Remote sensing techniques offer the possibility of quantifying the spatial and temporal variations of ET. By using satellite data as inputs, ET over the entire Canada's
landmass was calculated at 1 km resolution with a computer model, the Boreal Ecosystems Productivity Simulator (BEPS) (Liu et al., 1997). The satellite data, which includes land cover (annually) and leaf area index (10-day intervals), were derived from the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer
(AVHRR) on board of NOAA satellites. The ancillary data were meteorological data (daily) and soil texture. The Penman-Monteith method was used but theoretically modified to consider: (1) non-linear response of the conductance to diurnal variation of weather conditions, and (2) the effects of canopy
architecture on canopy conductance. The results were validated using measurements from Saskatchewan and Manitoba made as part of BOReal Ecosystem-Atmosphere Study (BOREAS).
Wind Retrieval from RADARSAT SAR Images: Selection of a Suitable C-band HH Polarization Wind Retrieval Model
Authors: Vachon P W , Dobson F W
Published: March 2017

A standardized analysis of wind retrieval collocations from a set of ERS (C-band VV polarization) and RADARSAT (C-band HH polarization) synthetic aperture radar (SAR) open ocean images is presented. The field validation opportunities, carried out over the past
eight years, provided collocated (in time and space) in situ validation data consisting of wind vector and ocean wave spectrum measurements. In this paper, we present validation results for the SAR-estimated wind direction and speed. The direction estimate is based on the orientation of coherent
atmospheric structures in the SAR image. The speed estimate is based on the orientation of coherent atmospheric structures in the SAR image. The speed estimate is based on a scatterometer wind retrieval model for C-band VV polarization (specifically, CMOD_IFR2) modified for HH polarization using
available polarization ratios. We consider several C-band polarization ratios including empirical and theoretical forma. Use of CMOD_IFR2 and a polarization ratio according to Kirchhoff is recommended for RADARSAT SAR ocean wind retrieval.
On the use of polarimetric SAR data for ship detection
Authors: Touzi R
Published: March 2017

The polarization information is investigated for ship detection, using the polarimetric Convair-580 SAR. Ocean and ship polarimetric signatures are analysed within the incidence angle range 45°-70° using a data set of the Nova Scotia coast. It is shown
that among the classical linear polarizations HH, VV and HV, the polarization HH gives the best ship-sea contrast at grazing angles, even though the sea clutter is the lowest for the HV polarization at lower incidence angles. The polarization entropy is investigated for use in ship detection. It
permits a significant improvement of the ship-sea contrast for incidence angles up to 60°. For larger incidence angles, the increasing heterogeneity of the ocean scattering mechanisms reduces the efficiency of the polarization entropy tool for ship discrimination.
Radar Stereo Pairs for DEM Generation RADARSAT for Stereoscopy
Authors: Toutin Th
Published: March 2017

In the 1960's, stereoscopic methods were first applied to radar images to derive ground elevation. Unfortunately, research uncovered contradictions and a dichotomy between error propagation theory and practical results, particularly over high relief areas. This
dichotomy combined with the lack of stereo radar pairs led to the decline of radargrammetry. The launch in 1995 of Canada's first earth observation satellite, RADARSAT with its various operating modes and specific geometric characteristics has turned the tide. We are now able to understand and
resolve this dichotomy, and to define general guidelines for selecting RADARSAT stereo pairs for DEM generation as a function of terrain relief. Digital Elevation Model (DEM) generation from stereo Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images has once more become a hot R&D topic. However,
stereoscopy using SAR data is more problematic than VIR stereoscopy, which emulates human stereo vision. An a priori understanding of the physical components of stereo SAR is a pre-requisite for any processing and product generation.
GlobeSAR-2 University Program and Curriculum Development Package
Authors: Brisco B , Fisette T , Manore M J
Published: March 2017

GlobeSAR-2 is a RADARSAT training, technology transfer, and applications development program being conducted in 11 countries in Latin America by the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing (CCRS) with Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and International
Development and Research Centre (IDRC) support. Private sector partners include Radarsat International (RSI), PCI, and Atlantis Scientific. The program goals are: 1) to provide the basic background and understanding of how to use SAR imagery in general, and RADARSAT products in particular; 2) to
provide the necessary data and analyses tools to support applications development and demonstration; and 3) conduct collaborative detailed studies on a wide range of applications. One of the major elements of GlobeSAR-2 is the university program and curriculum development package. The GlobeSAR-2
university program is a graduate student support and faculty/staff exchange program meant to foster the use of RADARSAT data in joint research projects between South American and Canadian universities. The curriculum development package is a digital collection on CD-ROM of training materials,
application modules and image examples, image processing exercises, and other such material designed to aid universities professors or staff in developing a radar remote sensing curriculum at their particular institute. This paper briefly describes the GlobeSAR-2 program and includes a detailed
description of the university program being conducted within GlobeSAR-2 as well as the contents of the university package.
The Potential of RADARSAT-2 for Crop Mapping and Assessing Crop Condition
Authors: McNairn H , van der Sanden J J , Brown R
J , Ellis J
Published: March 2017

Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) research over the last two decades has confirmed that microwaves are sensitive to both soils and crop characteristics. Results using multi-temporal RADARSAT-1 imagery have confirmed that C-HH backscatter can detect differences in
crop type, crop growth stage and crop indicators like crop height, biomass and leaf area index. Active microwave systems have a significant advantage over optical systems, particularly for crop monitoring, since SAR acquisitions are not impeded by cloud cover. The multi-beam modes associated with
RADARSAT-1 also provide significant flexibility related to the timing, spatial resolution and incidence angle of the acquired imagery.
 Building on the success of RADARSAT-1, the announcement of the launch of RADARSAT-2 opens up new opportunities for agriculture and land
cover mapping. The multi-polarized configuration of RADARSAT-2 is likely to provide more information related to crop structure and crop condition. In preparation for the availability of RADARSAT-2 data, the Canada Centre of Remote Sensing (CCRS) has been gathering airborne multi-polarized imagery to
assess the added information content of this multi-dimensional data. CCRS flew the airborne CV-580 SAR over two sites in Ontario during the 1998 and 1999 field seasons. These data are being used to address the sensitivity of multi-polarized SAR data to characteristics of corn, wheat and soybean
crops. This paper provides preliminary results of this analysis.
Stability of Amazon Backscatter at C-band: Spaceborne Results from ERS-1/2 and RADARSAT-1
Authors: Hawkins R K , Attema E P W , Crapolicchio R , Lecomte P , Closa J , Meadows P J , Srivastava S K
Published: March 2017

This paper looks at the question of the temporal and spatial stability of the Amazon rainforest as a distributed target calibration source. The Amazon rainforest has been established by a number of investigators as a useful means of determining the in-orbit
antenna pattern of spaceborne SAR and scatterometers. It was used for ERS-1 and ERS-2, J-ERS-1, and RADARSAT-1 providing a large isotropic backscattering reference over a wide range of incidence angle. In this paper, we look at a long series of results from ERS and RADARSAT to examine the temporal
and spatial stability of this target class. These properties are supported by a simple radar signature model.
 In any radar measurement, uncompensated variation in the sensor may be included with changes in target backscatter. Results from independent measurements from
precision transponders are used to assess the size and characteristics of these inherent systematic variations before discussing the implications of the Amazon backscatter measurements. The implications of the results for future missions are also explored.
Polarimetric Calibration Results and Error Budget for SAR-580 System
Authors: Hawkins R K , Touzi R , Wind A , Murnaghan K , Livingstone C E
Published: March 2017

Polarimetric SAR capability was first demonstrated in the CCRS (Canada Centre for Remote Sensing) airborne SAR facility as an experimental X-band channel. Although this demonstration system had poor channel isolation, techniques were developed to show that under
these conditions, it was possible to produce fully calibrated polarimetric data. That system was eventually abandoned in favour of a technically much improved C-band polarimeter. In November, 1996, the facility was transferred to Environment Canada who own and operate the facility. This paper
reviews the technical implementation of the C-band polarimeter, the processing and calibration chain, and results from an extended period of stable operations. Calibration for this system involves use of external PARCs and trihedral corner reflectors deployed across the imaging swath. The paper
also gives an error budget for the phase and amplitude calibration of the instrument.
The Radiometric Calibration Budget of RADARSAT-1
Authors: Hawkins R K , Srivastava S K
Published: March 2017

This paper reviews the radiometric calibration budget of RADARSAT-1 using a model for the estimation of parameters used to set the calibration. The model involves all of the externally determined quantities used in the calibration together with their statistical
variation including: antenna pattern determination, replica energy variation, absolute calibration using reference targets, and spacecraft attitude stability. Results from the modelling are applied to the case of standard beam S3 which may be extended to other beams without losing generality are
consistent with previously reported uncertainty estimates.
Spatial and Inter-annual Variability of Canada's Net Primary Productivity Based on Satellite Imagery
Authors: Chen J M , Liu J , Cihlar J
Published: March 2017

The Boreal Ecosystems Productivity Simulator (BEPS) developed at the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing (Liu et al., 1997, Remote Sensing of Environment, 62:158-175) has been further refined and applied to the whole Canada's landmass for multiple years from 1994 to
1996. The data used in the computation include leaf area index (every 10 days) and land cover type (annually) from measurements of the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) at 1 km resolution, daily meteorological data (radiation, precipitation, temperature and humidity) and soil water
holding capacity. Annual NPP calculations from BEPS in 1994 are compared with ground biomass data in Quebec, and the components (radiation interception, photosynthesis, respiration, rainfall interception, etc.) of the model are validated with data from the Boreal Ecosystem-Atmosphere Study (BOREAS).
A new method for daily NPP calculation is developed through an analytical temporal integration of Farquhar's model. An innovative way of validating daily NPP calculation using two-level CO2 flux measurements will be described. In this presentation, the spatial distribution of NPP in Canada will be
shown, and the inter-annual variation will be analyzed against satellite and climate data.
Classification of Hyperspectral Agricultural Data with Spectral Matching Techniques
Authors: Staenz K , Schwarz J W , Vernaccini L , Vachon F , Nadeau C
Published: March 2017

This paper describes three new statistical spectral matching techniques (correlation, normalized Chi-square, and normalized square error statistics) and their application to agriculture for field labelling purposes. The resulting classifications were compared
with each other and against those retrieved with the spectral angle mapper, a widely used spectral matching technique. Hyperspectral 96-band casi data acquired over an agricultural site near Altona, Manitoba, Canada were used for this purpose. The results of the single-class approach indicate that
the best overall performance was achieved with the correlation similarity measure and the modified spectral angle mapper (MSAM) with about 84% and 78 % correctly classified pixels, respectively. The average classification accuracy was significantly lower for the normalized Chi-square and the
normalized square error statistics (SESN) techniques. The multi-class approach produced slightly better results in most cases due to lower co-mission errors.
Quality Assurance and Stability Reference (QUASAR) Monitoring Results for Six Earth Observation Sensors Using Airborne Hyperspectral Data
Authors: Teillet P M , Fedosejevs G , Gauthier R P , Shin R T , O'Neill N T , Thome K
J , Meygret A
Published: March 2017

This paper reports on experimental work to test the feasibility of using reference hyperspectral data sets to carry out vicarious radiometric calibrations for multiple satellite sensors. The methodology has been validated using data from a campaign at the
Railroad Valley playa test site in Nevada. The proof of concept has been further tested based on two data acquisition campaigns at the Newell County rangeland test site in Alberta. All three campaigns included ground-based measurements, satellite imagery, and airborne hyperspectral data. The
airborne image data were acquired using the AVIRIS sensor in Nevada and the casi sensor in all three cases. Radiometric calibration monitoring results were obtained for six sensors: NOAA-14 AVHRR, Landsat-5 TM, SPOT-1 HRV, SPOT-2 HRV, SPOT-4 VGT, and OrbView-2 SeaWiFS. These results indicate that
the nominal on-orbit radiometric calibrations of all the satellite sensors fit within their predicted uncertainties. The combination of both lower-reflectance and higher-reflectance test sites is shown to improve the quality of the calibration monitoring results.
Monitoring wetland hydrology in Atlantic Canada using multi-temporal and multi-beam RADARSAT data
Authors: Sokol J , Pultz T J , Bulzgis V
Published: March 2017

Wetland complexes comprise a large percentage of ground cover in central Labrador, and contain some of the largest peatlands in North America. The region experiences long cold winters and short cool summers, resulting in a limited growth period. Fens and bogs are
the dominant wetland types. The level of moisture saturation, chemistry, topography and climate influence the development of wetland systems. Slight changes in these environmental factors can significantly alter vegetation species and health. As persistent cloud cover often limits the utility of
optical remotely sensed data in Atlantic Canada, the value of using the all-weather capabilities of radar data become evident. Temporal sequences of Radarsat images were acquired in May, June and August 1999. During each time period, four Radarsat scenes with incidence angles spanning 20-49°
(Standard 1, 4, 7 and Fine 1) were acquired. This paper describes changes in radar backscatter as a function of incidence angle, vegetation structure and moisture conditions.
Combining Optical and Radar Satellite Image Data for Surveillance of Coastal Waters
Authors: van der Sanden J J , Vachon P W , Gower J F R
Published: March 2017

In this paper, we present preliminary results of a study concerning the joint application of optical and radar satellite image data for the mapping / monitoring of coastal waters. The image data studied were acquired during the summer of 1999 by the RADARSAT SAR
system and the NOAA AVHRR scanner. Our area of interest is located at Canada's West Coast and includes the waters that surround the Queen Charlottes and Vancouver Island. The findings illustrate the limitations that clouds and wind speed create for the applicability of optical and radar data,
respectively. The importance of slicks as tracers of coastal features in SAR images is demonstrated and agreement in the patterns present in thermal AVHRR and SAR data is observed.
Combining Diverse Spectral, Spatial and Contextual Attributes in Segment-Based Image Classification
Authors: Guindon B
Published: March 2017

Conventional per-pixel classifiers will have limited effectiveness in the interpretation of very high resolution satellite imagery. More flexible approaches will be needed which rely on a broader set of scene attributes, especially spatial and contextual ones.
This raises issues related to methods for combining such diverse attributes in a consistent decision-making framework. Evidential reasoning provides an alternative approach. A methodology, involving segment-based labelling is described. The implications for attribute selection, integration into
complex recognition modules and the derivation of evidential weights from training are discussed.
Potential of Road Stereo Mapping with RADARSAT Images
Authors: Toutin T
Published: March 2017

Two stereo pairs generated with standard mode images (S1-S7 and S4-S7) and one with fine mode images (F1-F5) are used to evaluate the potential of RADARSAT-SAR for extracting planimetric features, such as roads on a PC-based stereo workstation. First, monoscopic
and stereoscopic plotting for the GCPs are performed to evaluate the impact on the accuracy. It is prerequisite, especially for smaller intersection angle stereo pairs, to acquire GCPs in stereoscopy since monoscopic collection mode degrades the relative and absolute orientations of the stereo model
with a ratio of two to four depending of the stereo geometry. The roads are then interactively stereo extracted by an operator and compared with the roads of the digital topographic maps. Statistical results over a large sample (more than 900 km) show accuracy of about 15-24 m for fine mode and
25-50 m for standard mode stereo-pairs with 90% confidence levels, independently of the stereo configuration. The impact of image sampling on the road positioning accuracy is also addressed. Finally, comparisons with the ortho-rectification process show that the stereoscopic method to extract
planimetric features is slightly more accurate.
The Dependence of TOA Reflectance Anisotropy on Cloud Properties Inferred from ScaRaB Satellite Data
Authors: Chang F L , Li Z , Trishchenko A
Published: March 2017

An angular dependence model (ADM) describes the anisotropy in the reflectance field. ADMs are a key element in determining the top-of-the-atmosphere (TOA) albedos and radiative fluxes. This study utilizes one-year satellite data from the Scanner for Radiation
Budget (ScaRaB) for overcast scenes to examine the variation of ADMs with cloud properties. Using ScaRaB shortwave (SW) overcast radiance measurements, a SW mean overcast ADM, similar to the ERBE ADM, was generated. Differences between the ScaRaB and ERBE overcast ADMs lead to biases of
~0.01-0.04 in mean albedos inferred from specific angular bins. The largest biases are in the backward scattering direction. Overcast ADMs for the visible (VIS) wavelength were also generated using ScaRaB VIS measurements. They are very similar in general to, but a little smaller at large
viewing angles and a little larger at nadir than, the SW overcast ADMs. To evaluate the impact of cloud properties on ADMs, ScaRaB overcast observations were further classified into thin, thick, warm, and cold cloud categories to generate four subsets of ADMs. The resulting ADMs for thin and thick
clouds show opposite trends and they deviate significantly from the overall mean ADM by several to more than ten percents. Deviations from the mean ADM were also noted for the ADMs developed for warm water clouds and cold ice clouds. These deviations were attributed to the different scattering phase
functions of water and ice particles and were compared to results from model simulations. Use of a single mean overcast ADM results in albedo biases of 0.01-0.04, relative to the use of specific ADMs for particular cloud types. The biases reduced to ~0.005 when averaged over all cloud types and
viewing geometry.
Development of Thematic Browse Products to Aid in the Analysis of National Satellite Image Data Sets
Authors: Guindon B
Published: March 2017

Currently, there are a number of remote sensing programs underway that will lead to the creation of comprehensive national and global data sets of processed, high resolution satellite scenes. While these data sets represent a sampling of only a fraction of all
scenes held in raw image archives, collectively they still constitute a massive volume of potential information beyond the capabilities of users to digest. This paper proposes the development of a new form of browse product to accompany these full resolution data sets. The purposes of this browse
are to support extraction of synoptic information measures and to quickly locate example areas illustrating user-specified thematic occurrences. To accomplish these goals, a browse product consisting of coarse thematic layers is proposed. The structure of a complementary browse analysis system is
also described which builds upon content-based image retrieval (CBIR) currently under development for generic image databases.
Synthetic Aperture Radar and Search and Rescue
Authors: Lukowski T I , Charbonneau F
Published: March 2017

Scientists at the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing have explored the uses of remotely sensed imagery to assist Search and Rescue in Canada. Studies concentrated on the uses of SAR imagery for the detection and classification of crashed aircraft and have shown the
feasibility of using such imagery for these purposes, although current spaceborne systems are proving limited in their capabilities. With further development in technologies, improved coverage of the Canadian land-mass of future systems, and further development of techniques it will be possible to
assist in Search and Rescue for land targets. This is expected to bear fruit for RADARSAT-2 and other future satellite SAR systems.
Demystification of IKONOS!
Authors: Toutin Th , Cheng P
Published: March 2017

IKONOS, the commercial satellite with the highest publicly available resolution, was successfully launched in September 1999. The satellite's sensor can generate 1-m panchromatic and 4-m multiband images with off-nadir viewing up-to-60º in any azimuth for a
better revisit rate and stereo capabilities. The high-resolution imagery that IKONOS provides theoretically will have unlimiteduses in a number of markets (including state and local government) and in various applications such as mapping, agriculture, forestry, and emergency response. Instead of
using aerial photos, highly detailed maps of entire countries can be frequently and easily updated using this data. Farmers can monitor the health of their crops and estimate yields with greater accuracy and over shorter intervals. Scientists can look at environmentally sensitive areas and predict
trends with greater certainty. Government officials can monitor and plan more enlightened land use policies. City planners can further the development of new housing communities with greater precision and attention. In short, the potential uses for IKONOS imagery are limited only by the
imagination.
Synthetic Aperture Radar and the Guagua Pichincha Volcano
Authors: Lukowski T I , Budkewitsch P , Charbonneau F , Stix J
Published: March 2017

The Guagua Pichincha volcano close to Quito, Ecuador has been erupting since August 1998. To monitor its behaviour, RADARSAT-1 Fine Mode data were acquired in March, April, October, and November of 1999. Change detection has been carried out using these images.
In this study, the capability, utility and limitations of such SAR imagery for monitoring of volcanic activity is being examined.
Integration of Multi-Polarized SAR Data and High Spatial Optical Imagery For Precision Farming
Authors: McNairn H , Brown R J , McGovern M , Huffman T , Ellis J
Published: March 2017

Monitoring the condition of agricultural crops requires that soils and crop information is readily available throughout the growing season. Visible-infrared wavelengths are sensitive to variations in crop and soil conditions. Although optical imagery can be used
to map crop characteristics, cloud cover can impede the use of these data for operational monitoring. RADARSAT-1 can provide crop information, but because imagery is acquired in only one transmit-receive polarization, multi-temporal data sets are required. Radars that acquire imagery in multiple
polarizations, like RADARSAT-2, are likely to provide much more information on both crop and soil characteristics.
 In 1998 and 1999, airborne C-band polarimetric synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery was acquired over two sites in Ontario (Canada). These data are
currently being analyzed to assess what crop information polarimetric sensors, like RADARSAT-2, will provide for site specific crop monitoring. In addition to airborne SAR, satellite and airborne optical images were acquired over these test sites. Soil moisture measurements and crop information were
collected on corn, soybean and wheat fields during the airborne acquisitions, to support interpretation of the remotely sensed images. Preliminary results indicate that although backscatter from corn fields saturates once crop growth is significant, multi-polarized linear and circular radar
configurations do provide some information on grain and soybean crop condition.
Comparison of Surface Reflectance Retrieved from Hyperspectral Data Using MODTRAN4 and CAM5S
Authors: Staenz K , Secker J , Adams R , Nadeau 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 CAM5S and MODTRAN4 atmospheric radiative transfer (RT) codes. 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. Major differences occur in the stronger gas absorption regions. At
wavelengths unaffected by strong gaseous absorption, the performance was similar for both RT codes even though CAM5S has an execution time that is about about 50 times faster than that of MODTRAN4.
Socio-Cultural Considerations in International Geomatics Training
Authors: Jans C , Goodfellow C , Bruce W
Published: March 2017

The perception of science and scientific findings can vary significantly between different cultures. In order to meaning fully convey scientific and technical information to international audiences, particularly in a training context, an appreciation of
cross-cultural communication differences is essential.
 This paper is derived from a curriculum developed by the Training and Technology Transfer Section (TTTS) of the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing for trainers and scientist/trainers who are new to international projects.
The TTTS curriculum is directed at improving the delivery of geomatics training to different countries and cultures. It places primary emphasis on socio-cultural considerations, as they relate to effective cross-cultural training and technology transfer. The discussion includes measures of
effectiveness of such training and elements of culture that have the greatest effect on learning. The concepts of adult learning are also discussed.
 Based on the TTTS experience and that of other colleagues from CCRS and elsewhere, this paper provides ideas for geomatics
specialists who will find themselves doing double duty as applications specialists and trainers in the international environment. To illustrate the complexity and diversity of international training, references are made to materials in the workshop, such as field-proven models, examples and
anecdotal information.
 Though oriented towards geomatics, the workshop curriculum outlined in the paper may be extended to other training situations involving complex technology transfer and the goal of sustainable application.
Calibrated Polarimetric SAR Data for Ship Detection
Authors: Touzi R
Published: March 2017

The polarization information is investigated for ship detection using calibrated polarimetric Convair-580 SAR data. It is shown that at operational satellite SAR incidence angles (lower than 60° ), there is a significant improvement of ship-sea contrast when
the full polarimetric information is used instead of the information provided by the scalar one channel polarization (HH, VV, or HV).
Modified Soil Adjusted Crop Residue Index (MSACRI): A new index for mapping crop residue
Authors: Bannari A , Haboudane D , McNairn H , Bonn F
Published: March 2017

In this study, we present a new index for mapping and estimating the crop residue cover fraction: the MSACRI (Modified Soil Adjusted Crop Residue Index). This index exploits the mid infrared channels: 1.55 µm to 1.75 µm and 2.10 µm to 2.35 µm.
Compared to the visible, these channels are characterized by large transparence in relation to atmospheric constituents. In extreme atmospheric conditions, the MSACRI is subject to a slight reduction of approximately 4 %. It offers better discrimination of soils / residue and shows quite good
dynamics in the presence of residue with average values close to ± 0.03 for bare soil and close to 0.70 for full cover residue.
ISO/TC 211 Geographic Information and Geomatics - A Framework and Reference Model
Authors: Fadaie K
Published: March 2017

This paper summarizes the work in progress within ISO/TC211 - Geographic Information and Geomatics. An emphasis has been put on Working Group 1, which is the Framework and Reference Model. Many technical documents are dealing with vector oriented geographic
information, and are at the stage of Committee Draft (CD) or Draft International Standard (DIS). We expect that most of this sets of abstract standards is near completion. ISO/TC 211 has established a work on Imagery and Gridded Data Components at Stage 0. This is intended to develop several New
Work Items (NWIs), addressing component standards for imagery, gridded and coverage data. The NWIs will be addressing topics such as Data Model, Metadata, Quality, Encoding, and Services.
Map Making with Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Toutin Th
Published: March 2017

Map making with remote sensing data requires geometric and radiometric processing methods (monoscopic and stereoscopic) adapted to the nature and characteristics of the data in order to extract the best cartographic and topographic information. For the monoscopic
method, different geometric and radiometric processing techniques are compared and evaluated, quantitatively and qualitatively with 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: a subpixel geometric accuracy with high-quality composite images, which are sharp and precise and containing well-defined cartographic elements and data that are easy to interpret and closer to physical reality. The stereoscopic method still is the most common
method used by the mapping, photogrammetry and remote sensing communities to extract three-dimensional information. It is successfully applied either to images in the visible spectrum or radar images to generate digital elevation model with an accuracy of tens of metres depending of the data
source.
Landsat-7 ETM+ and Landsat-5 TM Cross-Calibration Based on Tandem Data Sets
Authors: Teillet P M , Fedosejevs G , Irish R R , Barker J , Markham B L
Published: March 2017

Early in its mission, the Landsat-7 spacecraft was temporarily in a tandemorbit that drifted across that of the Landsat-5 spacecraft in order to facilitate sensor cross-calibration based on nearly-coincident scenes acquired by the Landsat-7 Enhanced Thematic
Mapper Plus (ETM+) and Landsat-5 Thematic Mapper (TM). This paper presents a methodology for radiometric cross-calibration of the solar reflective spectral bands of the Landsat-7 ETM+ and Landsat-5 TM sensors and results based on analysis of two different tandem image pairs for which ground
reference data are available. With the well-calibrated ETM+ as a reference, the tandem-based cross-calibrations for the two image pairs yield TM responsivity coefficients that are consistent to each other to within a few percent or better depending on the spectral band. Comparisons with independent
methods and results obtained by other groups indicate that the tandem-based cross-calibration is in close agreement with the independent results in spectral bands 1-4 but compares less favourably in bands 5 and 7. The methodology also incorporates adjustments for spectral band differences between
the two Landsat sensors. Spectral band difference effects are shown to be more dependent on the surface reflectance spectrum than on atmospheric and illumination conditions. A variety of target types are assessed regarding their suitability for Landsat radiometric cross-calibration in the absence of
surface reflectance spectra.
Effect of Radiative Transfer Codes for Mineral Mapping Using Hyperspectral Data
Authors: Staenz K , Nadeau C , Neville R A , Secker J
Published: March 2017

The study presented in this paper investigated the influence of radiative transfer (RT) codes upon the surface reflectance retrieval and, ultimately, upon the spectral unmixing for mineral identification and mapping of mineral abundances. The effect of
post-processing of the RT code retrieved surface reflectance was also studied. For this purpose, an AVIRIS radiance cube acquired over the Cuprite mining district area in Nevada on June 12, 1996 was used to generate the surface reflectance using the three RT codes ATREM (ATmospheric REMoval
program), CAM5S (Canadian Advanced Modified 5S), and MODTRAN4 (MODerate atmospheric radiance and TRANsmittance model). The mineral abundance maps generated from MODTRAN4 reflectance data showed the best match with a classification carried out by the United States Geological Survey [USGS 98].
However, the resulting fraction maps produced based on ATREM and CAM5S reflectance data are quite similar for most minerals identified, with the exception of montmorillonite and chalcedony. In addition, differences occur in several cases between the RT code retrieved reflectance and post-processed
data.
Hydrogeological Mapping in the Semi-arid Environment of Eastern Jordan Using Airborne Multipolarized Radar Images
Authors: Saint-Jean R , Singhroy V
Published: March 2017

This study focuses on the information content of HH, VV, VH and HV polarized airborne SAR data to evaluate which of these polarizations is more appropriate to facilitate mapping of lineaments and detailed drainage of wadis. It is known that a good knowledge of
surficial lineaments and drainage network can help to locate wells and surface water retention dams used for groundwater recharge.
 The study area is located near the village of Azraq in the semi-arid environment of Eastern Jordan. In Jordan, water availability is a very
acute problem as the demand is increasing and reserves are decreasing. A large amount of the water has always been obtained from deep wells but now, the rate of pumping exceeds the rate of replenishment. Additionally, the salinity is getting to a level where it is unsuitable for consumption. The
area receives an average of 50 mm of rain a year mostly between October and March. Natural vegetation is very scarce and survives only in the temporary river channels. Since vegetation is very scarce, the water is rapidly evacuated and recharge of the underground water table is minimal. The area has
a flat topography with slight depression enabling drainage during the 'rainy ' season.
 We use a set of airborne Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images of Eastern Jordan obtained from a survey flown in 1993, as part of the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing's GlobeSAR-1
project. All images were analyzed in order to enhance a maximum of hydrogeological information. Results show that the crossed polarizations images (HV or VH) and to a lesser extent, the HH like polarization images show a good contrast and enough details to permit hydrographic network mapping in the
wadi (dry river beds) where a minimum of vegetation is available. The VV polarization is not as sensitive to vegetation presence but permits a better positioning of the wadi banks and is useful to map roughness variations within playas.
Geological Mapping in the Canadian Shield: Implications for RADARSAT-2
Authors: Saint-Jean R , Singhroy V , Hawkins R K
Published: March 2017

Recent results have shown that RADARSAT-1 images have provided geologists with useful information in mapping structure and geomorphology and rock units in vegetated and non-vegetated terrains. In this paper, we evaluate the role of the additional capabilities
planned for RADARSAT-2 for geological mapping in a typical Precambrian Shield terrain. Specifically, this involves the role of high resolution and polarimetric data for mapping outcrops and other geological features. For this evaluation, we have acquired two airborne high-resolution polarimetric SAR
data set in the Madawaska Highlands area of Ontario. The areas are typical 'Canadian Shield terrains ' and consist of 10-30% Precambrian outcrops, variable thickness of drift cover and a dense to sparse forest cover. The imagery was acquired to simulate RADARSAT-2 Ultra Fine modes using the
Environment Canada CV-580 C-band SAR system originally developed by CCRS. Our initial results show that in vegetated areas, the improved spatial resolution of RADARSAT-2 will be more useful for geological mapping than the polarization capability. However, we are finding that the polarimetric
composites are providing additional details in lineament definition in some areas. The reason for this is not clearly understood.
RADARSAT-1 Hurricane Watch
Authors: Vachon P W , Black P , Dodge P , Katsaros K , Clemente-Colon P , Pichel W , MacDonell K
Published: March 2017

RADARSAT-1 ScanSAR Wide mode images of Atlantic basin hurricanes have been acquired over the past two hurricane seasons through the Canadian Space Agency's Disaster Watch program. These images provide a high-resolution view of these intense storms and new
insights into their morphology. A new result is recognition of the widespread presence of boundary layer rolls in these storms. In 2001, 'Hurricane Watch ' will focus on obtaining contemporaneous aircraft-based turbulence measurements at RADARSAT-1 pass times.
DEM Generation from New VIR Sensors: IKONOS, ASTER and Landsat-7
Authors: Toutin Th
Published: March 2017

Landsat 7 data provides a new opportunity for users to take advantage of satellite imagery for digital elevation model (DEM) generation, due to its new 15-m resolution panchromatic band sensor, extensive coverage areas and low cost. Using adjacent-track
stereo-capability DEM is generated over high mountainous area of Canada. DEM is then evaluated with 10-m accurate topographic DEM. Clouds, snow, glaciers and shadows generated mismatched areas during the correlation process and caused the worse accuracy (233 m) and the larger errors (700 m) in the
automatic interpolation. Without these areas specific to these challenging mountains an accuracy of 101 m is achieved.