bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SURVEY PROBLEMS AND REPRESENTATION OF ARCHITECTURAL PAINTED SURFACES
Authors: Carpiceci M.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The painted surfaces of a building are generally vertical walls and flat roofs or arched roofs. The detection of these objects must be prepared according to the reason why the metric operation is designed; metric control of the whole performance practice is crucial for the result to matches the predetermined needs. It's now clear that the acquisition of metric data, as the whole process of detection, can certainly not be left to an unidentified automation. The mere representation of point clouds transformed in mesh and processed into 'maps' can cover only a few limited requirements. Conservation and restoration also require the transformation of "discrete" three-dimensional data into two-dimensional representations, resulting in geometric transformations that require a new mindset, especially considering hardware and software potential. We want to propose a new type of projection end analysis as base for the development of representation systems that will transform three-dimensional models in two-dimensional projections for the conservation and restoration.
3D SURVEY OF THE EARLY-MIDDLE BRONZE AGE WORKSHOP COMPLEX AND CEMETERY AREA AT ERIMI-LAONIN TOU PORAKOU
Authors: Tucci G. , Bombardieri L. , Conti A. , Fiorini L.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Kouris Valley Project is an archaeological research project held from 2007 by University of Florence and directed by Prof. A. M. Jasink, under the field direction of Dr. L. Bombardieri in the Kourion area (Limassol, Cyprus). During the 2010 field season the collaboration of GeCo (Geomatics and Communication for Cultural Heritage Laboratory, University of Florence) was requested with the aim at the laser scanner survey of Erimi-Laonin tou Porakou site area. The survey involved two areas, a workshop and a cemetery, as well as some small ceramic finds. Range maps was used for different aims: to make a full-scale replica of a tomb to exhibit at Limassol museum and for the documentation of the excavation of the workshop. This one is a rather extreme case study: most significant artifacts are shallow carvings into bedrock and could be confused with natural elements. In this case the aim was to get automatic and accurate drawings comparable with traditional ones. The paper reviews the expressive potential of drawings done using different techniques and softwares, each one with its assets and restrictions.
THE COMPLETE VIRTUAL 3D RECONSTRUCTION OF THE EAST PEDIMENT OF THE TEMPLE OF ZEUS AT OLYMPIA
Authors: Patay-Horváth A.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The arrangement of the five central figures of the east pediment of the temple of Zeus at Olympia has been the subject of scholarly debates since the discovery of the fragments more than a century ago. In theory, there are four substantially different arrangements, all of which have already been selected by certain scholars for various aesthetic, technical and other considerations. The present project tries to approach this controversy in a new way, by producing a virtual 3D reconstruction of the group. Digital models of the statues were produced by scanning the original fragments and by reconstructing them virtually. For this purpose an innovative new software (Leonar3Do) has also been employed. The virtual model of the pediment surrounding the sculptures was prepared on the basis of the latest architectural studies and afterwards the reconstructed models were inserted in this frame, in order to test the technical feasibility and aesthetic effects the four possible arrangements. The paper gives an overview of the entire work and presents the final results suggesting that two arrangements can be ruled out due to the limited space available in the pediment.
3D VIRTUAL RECONSTRUCTIONS OF MINOAN RURAL SITES: THE CASE OF LIVARI CHEROMYLIA
Authors: Alusik T. , Chalupka M. , Kopernicky D.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The use of 3D sophisticated visualizations and reconstructions is still not common during the process of reconstruction or recreation of the appearance of any preserved architecture of prehistoric (Bronze Age) Crete. However, the author believes that in modern archaeology the use of the up-to-date computer technologies and sophisticated software is necessary. In their opinion, in case of presenting of sites with preserved architecture a creation of ideal 3D reconstruction should become a standard feature of final publications in the near future. The author deals with the study of Minoan architecture, settlement pattern and rural aspect of Minoan Crete in the last years. In this paper, the author – in cooperation with an architect and a specialist in technical modelling – is presenting an ideal 3D virtual reconstruction of the small rural site of Livari Cheromylia (consisting of 4 main structures and several terrace walls), situated on the southern coast in the Bay of Livari, between Goudouras and Aghia Irini. The 3D reconstruction of the individual structures and the site as a whole based on the up-to-date scholarship on Minoan architecture and the actual archaeological/architectural parallels in situ as well as on the iconographical sources, is presented below.
NEW INSTRUMENTS FOR SURVEY: ON LINE SOFTWARES FOR 3D RECONTRUCTION FROM IMAGES
Authors: Fratus de Balestrini E. , Guerra F.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. 3d scanning technologies had a significant development and have been widely used in documentation of cultural, architectural and archeological heritages. Modern methods of three-dimensional acquiring and modeling allow to represent an object through a digital model that combines visual potentialities of images (normally used for documentation) to the accuracy of the survey, becoming at the same time support for the visualization that for metric evaluation of any artefact that have an historical or artistic interest, opening up new possibilities for cultural heritage's fruition, cataloging and study. Despite this development, because of the small catchment area and the 3D laser scanner's sophisticated technologies, the cost of these instruments is very high and beyond the reach of most operators in the field of cultural heritages. This is the reason why they have appeared low-cost technologies or even free, allowing anyone to approach the issues of acquisition and 3D modeling, providing tools that allow to create three-dimensional models in a simple and economical way. The research, conducted by the Laboratory of Photogrammetry of the University IUAV of Venice, of which we present here some results, is intended to figure out whether, with Arc3D, it is possible to obtain results that can be somehow comparable, in therms of overall quality, to those of the laser scanner, and/or whether it is possible to integrate them. They were carried out a series of tests on certain types of objects, models made with Arc3D, from raster images, were compared with those obtained using the point clouds from laser scanner. We have also analyzed the conditions for an optimal use of Arc3D: environmental conditions (lighting), acquisition tools (digital cameras) and type and size of objects. After performing the tests described above, we analyzed the patterns generated by Arc3D to check what other graphic representations can be obtained from them: orthophotos and drawings. The research's result is a critical analysis of the software's potentialities, with an indication of the areas in which it is possible an effective and alternative use to other methods of survey.
FROM REAL TO..."REAL". A REVIEW OF GEOMATIC AND RAPID PROTOTYPING TECHNIQUES FOR SOLID MODELLING IN CULTURAL HERITAGE FIELD
Authors: Tucci G. , Bonora V.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The documentation and 3D modelling of Cultural Heritage are now mainly based on digital techniques to produce complete, detailed and photorealistic three-dimensional surveys. The integration of various technologies and sensors is the best solution to obtain results with these characteristics. According to the reproduction scale, you need to change the characteristics of the instruments used during acquisition. Reduced or real scale solid models are an effective support for projects involving communication and divulgation: they can be understood without the intermediation of data processing systems, therefore increasing the potential users. Additive Manufacturing (AM) is an expression indicative of technologies used to fabricate physical objects directly from CAD data sources; they are also called three-dimensional printing, solid freeform fabrication or layered manufacturing. The paper analyzes only factors related to the processing that involves the superficial aspect of the solid model; some important aspects useful in other applications, e.g. mechanical behaviour of the used material or the method to realize the internal structure or possible supports of the model, are neglected.
3D VIRTUAL RECONSTRUCTION OF AN URBAN HISTORICAL SPACE: A CONSIDERATION ON THE METHOD
Authors: Galizia M. , Santagati C.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Urban historical spaces are often characterized by a variety of shapes, geometries, volumes, materials. Their virtual reconstruction requires a critical approach in terms of acquired data's density, timing optimization, final product's quality and slimness. The research team has focused its attention on the study on Francesco Neglia square (previously named Saint Thomas square) in Enna. This square is an urban space fronted by architectures which present historical and stylistic differences. For example you can find the Saint Thomas'church belfry (in aragounese-catalan stile dated XIV century) and the porch, the Anime Sante baroque's church (XVII century), Saint Mary of the Grace's nunnery (XVIII century) and as well as some civil buildings of minor importance built in the mid twentieth century. The research has compared two different modeling tools approaches: the first one is based on the construction of triangulated surfaces which are segmented and simplified; the second one is based on the detection of surfaces geometrical features, the extraction of the more significant profiles by using a software dedicated to the elaboration of cloud points and the subsequent mathematical reconstruction by using a 3d modelling software. The following step was aimed to process the virtual reconstruction of urban scene by assembling the single optimized models. This work highlighted the importance of the image of the operator and of its cultural contribution, essential to recognize geometries which generates surfaces in order to create high quality semantic models.
360° FILM BRINGS BOMBED CHURCH TO LIFE
Authors: Kwiatek K.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. This paper explores how a computer-generated reconstruction of a church can be adapted to create a panoramic film that is presented in a panoramic viewer and also on a wrap-around projection system. It focuses on the fundamental principles of creating 360º films, not only in 3D modelling software, but also presents how to record 360º video using panoramic cameras inside the heritage site. These issues are explored in a case study of Charles Church in Plymouth, UK that was bombed in 1941 and has never been rebuilt. The generation of a 3D model of the bombed church started from the creation of five spherical panoramas and through the use of Autodesk ImageModeler software. The processed files were imported and merged together in Autodesk 3ds Max where a visualisation of the ruin was produced. A number of historical images were found and this collection enabled the process of a virtual reconstruction of the site. The aspect of merging two still or two video panoramas (one from 3D modelling software, the other one recorded on the site) from the same locations or with the same trajectories is also discussed. The prototype of 360º non-linear film tells a narrative of a wartime wedding that occurred in this church. The film was presented on two 360º screens where members of the audience could make decisions on whether to continue the ceremony or whether to run away when the bombing of the church starts. 3D modelling software made this possible to render a number of different alternati ves (360º images and 360º video). Immersive environments empower the visitor to imagine the building before it was destroyed.
3D SURVEY OF THE SAN CARLO THEATRE IN NAPLES
Authors: Cappellini V. , Campi M.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The article reports the approach developed for the 3D modeling of an important monument in Naples: San Carlo Theatre, the oldest Opera House in Europe recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
GIS-BASED SURFACE ANALYSIS OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDS
Authors: Kovács K. , Hanke K. , Moser M.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The international research project HiMAT (History of Mining Activities in the Tyrol and adjacent areas) is dedicated to the study of mining history in the Eastern Alps by various scientific disciplines. The aim of this program is the analysis of the mining activities’ impacts on environment and human societies. Unfortunately, there is only a limited number of specific regions (e.g. Mitterberg) to offer possibilities to investigate the former mining expansions. Within this multidisciplinary project, the archaeological sites and finds are analyzed by the Surveying and Geoinformation Unit at the University of Innsbruck. This paper shows data fusion of different surveying and post-processing methods to achieve a photo-realistic digital 3D model of one of these most important finds, the Bronze Age sluice box from the Mitterberg. The applied workflow consists of four steps: 1. Point cloud processing, 2. Meshing of the point clouds and editing of the models, 3. Image orientation, bundle and image adjustment, 4. Model texturing. In addition, a short range laser scanning survey was organized before the conservation process of this wooden find. More accurate research opportunities were offered after this detailed documentation of the sluice box, for example the reconstruction of the broken parts and the surface analysis of this archaeological object were implemented using these high-resolution datasets. In conclusion, various unperceived patterns of the wooden boards were visualized by the GIS-based tool marks investigation.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF E-LEARNING MATERIAL FOR OPENGIS STANDARDS
Authors: Kaden R. , Konig G.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. In this paper we discuss our experiences in creating lectures-on-demand using Flash streams based on MS PowerPoint slides that are enriched by author's comments (audio as well as video streams). We depict the drawbacks concerning up-to-dateness of lecture content and compatibility with different desktop and mobile devices. According to this, we focus on our workflow to create lectures using podcasts including slides, animations and movies that is independent from the lecturers' presence. In contrast to podcasts recording classroom lectures, we propose to store authors' explanations as text and to add his comments to the learning material in synthetic voice. Out-dated material can be exchanged without creating new video sequences in lecture time and extent and avoids time consuming re-taping and editing of existing course content. Moreover, splitting learning modules into small pieces facilitates and accelerates work during the regular update process. With this approach we are able to improve sustainability, since it saves cost and allows just in time production of rapidly changing learning content.
SATELLITE BASED LIVE AND INTERACTIVE DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAM IN THE FIELD OF GEOINFORMATICS – A PERSPECTIVE OF INDIAN INSTITUTE OF REMOTE SENSING, INDIA
Authors: Raju P. L. N. , Gupta P. K. , Roy P. S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Geoinformatics is a highly specialized discipline that deals with Remote Sensing, Geographical Information System (GIS), Global Positioning System (GPS) and field surveys for assessing, quantification, development and management of resources, planning and infrastructure development, utility services etc. Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), a premier institute and one of its kinds has played a key role for capacity Building in this specialized area since its inception in 1966. Realizing the large demand, IIRS has started outreach program in basics of Remote Sensing, GIS and GPS for universities and institutions. EDUSAT (Educational Satellite) is the communication satellite built and launched by ISRO in 2004 exclusively for serving the educational sector to meet the demand for an interactive satellite based distance education system for the country. IIRS has used EDUSAT (shifted to INSAT 4 CR recently due to termination of services from EDUSAT) for its distance learning program to impart basic training in Remote Sensing, GIS and GPS, catering to the universities spread across India. The EDUSAT based training is following similar to e-learning method but has advantage of live interaction sessions between teacher and the students when the lecture is delivered using EDUSAT satellite communication. Because of its good quality reception the interactions are not constrained due to bandwidth problems of Internet. National Natural Resource Management System, Department of Space, Government of India, under Standing Committee in Training and Technology funded this unique program to conduct the basic training in Geoinformatics. IIRS conducts 6 weeks basic training course on "Remote Sensing, GIS and GPS" regularly since the year 2007. The course duration is spread over the period of 3 months beginning with the start of the academic year (1st semester) i.e., July to December every year, for university students. IIRS has utilized EDUSAT satellite for conducting 4 six weeks training course during 2007 till 2009 and INSAT 4CR for conducting the next 2 programs. Till March 2011, fifty four universities with the participation of over 4000 students have benefited from the program (Table 7 and Figure 8). IIRS also organized workshops on "EDUSAT based distance learning: experiences & future learning" in 2007, 09 and 2011. Feedbacks have been taken to address the issues on course structure, duration etc. and plan for improvement in future programs and wider participation. Majority of the participants expressed satisfaction and provided positive feedback and willing to participate in the future programs.
CLOUD BASED WEB 3D GIS TAIWAN PLATFORM
Authors: Tsai W.-F. , Chang J.-Y. , Yan S. Y. , Chen B.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. This article presents the status of the web 3D GIS platform, which has been developed in the National Applied Research Laboratories. The purpose is to develop a global earth observation 3D GIS platform for applications to disaster monitoring and assessment in Taiwan. For quick response to preliminary and detailed assessment after a natural disaster occurs, the web 3D GIS platform is useful to access, transfer, integrate, display and analyze the multi-scale huge data following the international OGC standard. The framework of cloud service for data warehousing management and efficiency enhancement using VMWare is illustrated in this article.
V-SIPAL - A VIRTUAL LABORATORY FOR SATELLITE IMAGE PROCESSING AND ANALYSIS
Authors: Buddhiraju K. M. , Eeti L. , Tiwari K. K.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. In this paper a virtual laboratory for the Satellite Image Processing and Analysis (v-SIPAL) being developed at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay is described. v-SIPAL comprises a set of experiments that are normally carried out by students learning digital processing and analysis of satellite images using commercial software. Currently, the experiments that are available on the server include Image Viewer, Image Contrast Enhancement, Image Smoothing, Edge Enhancement, Principal Component Transform, Texture Analysis by Co-occurrence Matrix method, Image Indices, Color Coordinate Transforms, Fourier Analysis, Mathematical Morphology, Unsupervised Image Classification, Supervised Image Classification and Accuracy Assessment. The virtual laboratory includes a theory module for each option of every experiment, a description of the procedure to perform each experiment, the menu to choose and perform the experiment, a module on interpretation of results when performed with a given image and pre-specified options, bibliography, links to useful internet resources and user-feedback. The user can upload his/her own images for performing the experiments and can also reuse outputs of one experiment in another experiment where applicable. Some of the other experiments currently under development include georeferencing of images, data fusion, feature evaluation by divergence andJ-M distance, image compression, wavelet image analysis and change detection. Additions to the theory module include self-assessment quizzes, audio-video clips on selected concepts, and a discussion of elements of visual image interpretation. V-SIPAL is at the satge of internal evaluation within IIT Bombay and will soon be open to selected educational institutions in India for evaluation.
A SIMULATED REAL-TIME SEVERE WEATHER NOWCASTING
Authors: Liu C.-Y. , Ackerman S. A.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. An upper-level undergraduate course entitled "Radar and Satellite Meteorology" has offered for the past five years at the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison. This course has two components, one is the lectures on remote sensing theory, and the other is laboratory exercises that involve the investigation of archived radar and satellite data. One of the most popular laboratory exercises, according to the students' feedback, is the simulated real-time severe weather nowcasting in the computer-equipped classroom. The students are experienced a severe weather outbreak and placed in a real-time operational decision-making environment. Archived Level-II and Level-III Next-generation Radar (NEXRAD) data is viewed with either the freely available Integrated Data Viewer (IDV) or McIDAS software packages. The "bundling" feature of these software packages allows the instructor to pre-package radar data (e.g., reflectivity, storm-relative Doppler velocity) and feed it to the students every four to five minutes, simulating the delay between radar volume scans. Teams of students are required to monitor the evolution of the situation and issue severe weather warnings based on radar analysis skills developed in lecture and previous labs. Documented storm reports are also integrated into the lab to assist — or sometimes detract from — the students' warning decisions, and the classroom clock is even adjusted to correspond with the time of the events. This exercise provides students with a unique operational experience that is often missing from the undergraduate curriculum. Its inherent portability and flexibility allows instructors to adapt it to any historical severe weather event, making it appropriate for courses in mesoscale and synoptic meteorology in addition to remote sensing.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF GIS EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES SHARING AMONG CENTRAL TAIWAN UNIVERSITIES
Authors: Chou T.-Y. , Yeh M.-L. , Lai Y.-C.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Using GIS in the classroom enhance students’ computer skills and explore the range of knowledge. The paper highlights GIS integration on e-learning platform and introduces a variety of abundant educational resources. This research project will demonstrate tools for e-learning environment and delivers some case studies for learning interaction from Central Taiwan Universities. Feng Chia University (FCU) obtained a remarkable academic project subsidized by Ministry of Education and developed e-learning platform for excellence in teaching/learning programs among Central Taiwan’s universities. The aim of the project is to integrate the educational resources of 13 universities in central Taiwan. FCU is serving as the hub of Center University. To overcome the problem of distance, e-platforms have been established to create experiences with collaboration enhanced learning. The e-platforms provide coordination of web service access among the educational community and deliver GIS educational resources. Most of GIS related courses cover the development of GIS, principles of cartography, spatial data analysis and overlaying, terrain analysis, buffer analysis, 3D GIS application, Remote Sensing, GPS technology, and WebGIS, MobileGIS, ArcGIS manipulation. In each GIS case study, students have been taught to know geographic meaning, collect spatial data and then use ArcGIS software to analyze spatial data. On one of e-Learning platforms provide lesson plans and presentation slides. Students can learn Arc GIS online. As they analyze spatial data, they can connect to GIS hub to get data they need including satellite images, aerial photos, and vector data. Moreover, e-learning platforms provide solutions and resources. Different levels of image scales have been integrated into the systems. Multi-scale spatial development and analyses in Central Taiwan integrate academic research resources among CTTLRC partners. Thus, establish decision-making support mechanism in teaching and learning. Accelerate communication, cooperation and sharing among academic units
USE OF OPENLY AVAILABLE SATELLITE IMAGES FOR REMOTE SENSING EDUCATION
Authors: Wang C.-K.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. With the advent of Google Earth, Google Maps, and Microsoft Bing Maps, high resolution satellite imagery are becoming more easily accessible than ever. It have been the case that the college students may already have wealth experiences with the high resolution satellite imagery by using these software and web services prior to any formal remote sensing education. It is obvious that the remote sensing education should be adjusted to the fact that the audience are already the customers of remote sensing products (through the use of the above mentioned services). This paper reports the use of openly available satellite imagery in an introductory-level remote sensing course in the Department of Geomatics of National Cheng Kung University as a term project. From the experience learned from the fall of 2009 and 2010, it shows that this term project has effectively aroused the students' enthusiastic toward Remote Sensing.
SEOS – EARSEL'S PROJECT ON SCIENCE EDUCATION THROUGH EARTH OBSERVATION FOR HIGH SCHOOLS
Authors: Reuter R.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. SEOS is an initiative for using remote sensing in science education curricula in high schools funded under the 6th Framework Programme of the European Commission (EC). Eleven partners from several European countries, in cooperation with the European Space Agency (ESA) and teachers from European high schools, created e-learning tutorials for science students in high schools. The tutorials cover many disciplines such as physics, biology, geography, mathematics and engineering, emphasising the interdisciplinary character of remote sensing. They are the core element of the SEOS Learning Management System, allowing teachers to create their own courses, to distribute already available or new worksheets to the students for homework and to collect the results. Forums are available for teachers, students and other users to exchange information and discuss topics relevant for their study.
AN INTRODUCTION OF SURVEYING AND GEOMATICS EDUCATION WITH E-PLATFORM IN NCTU, TAIWAN
Authors: Teo T.-A. , Shih P. T.-Y.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. This article presents the current status of Surveying and Geomatics education provided by Department of Civil Engineering at National Chiao Tung University, Taiwan. The Surveying and Geomatics Education at NCTU is introduced first. Then the current status of using E-learning platform for Surveying and Geomatics courses is described. This platform, also known as E-Campus, is designed and implemented by NCTU Digital Content Production Center. This paper also shows some statistical numbers of Surveying and Geomatics courses using E-Campus. The practical results indicated that the average login for undergraduate student is from 38 to 60 times per student for each course while the average login for graduate student is from 69 to 105.
GEOSPATIAL CHARACTERIZATION OF BIODIVERSITY: NEED AND CHALLENGES
Authors: Roy P. S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Explaining the distribution of species and understanding their abundance and spatial distribution at multiple scales using remote sensing and ground based observation have been the central aspect of the meeting of COP10 for achieving CBD 2020 targets. In this respect the Biodiveristy Characterization at Landscape Level for India is a milestone in biodiversity study in this country. Satellite remote sensing has been used to derive the spatial extent and vegetation composition patterns. Sensitivity of different multi-scale landscape metrics, species composition, ecosystem uniqueness and diversity in distribution of biological diversity is assessed through customized landscape analysis software to generate the biological richness surface. The uniqueness of the study lies in the creation of baseline geo-spatial data on vegetation types using multi-temporal satellite remote sensing data (IRS LISS III), deriving biological richness based on spatial landscape analysis and inventory of location specific information about 7964 unique plant species recorded in 20,000 sample plots in India and their status with respect to endemic, threatened and economic/medicinal importance. The results generated will serve as a baseline database for various assessment of the biodiversity for addressing CBD 2020 targets.
IMPACT OF EL NIÑO AND LA NIÑA ON SOIL MOISTURE- PRECIPITATION FEEDBACK OF INDIAN MONSOON OVER CENTRAL INDIA
Authors: Lodh A. , Jha S. , Raghava R.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The processes across an interface between land surface and the atmosphere over central India have a strong impact on the Indian summer monsoon climate, particularly during extreme years. The soil moisture-climate interactions, i.e. impacts on temperature and precipitation for years of excess (1999,2010) and deficit (1987,2009) rainfall over central India are being analyzed. For this study, two land surface parameterization schemes the Biosphere Atmosphere Transfer scheme (BATS) and the Community Land Model (CLM) were coupled using the regional climate model RegCM4.0. Soil moisture-temperature coupling and soil moisture-precipitation feedbacks are important land surface atmosphere interactions in context of climate change scenario. As feedbacks between land and atmosphere are hard to measure directly, correlation between temperature and evapotranspiration is the diagnostic used for assessing soil moisture-evapotranspiration-temperature coupling strength and simple statistic called "normalized feedback parameter" λNC of soil moisture and precipitation is used to access the strength of soil moisture precipitation feedback at a regional scale. The soil moisture – atmosphere coupling strength in BATS scheme coupled with RegCM4.0 is more than the coupling strength in the CLM scheme enabled with RegCM4.0. From our study it is validated that central India is the region in the Indian monsoon domain where profound soil moisture-climate interactions take place at a regional scale.
SPATIAL PATTERN OF TEMPORAL TREND OF CROP PHENOLOGY MATRICES OVER INDIA USING TIMESERIES GIMMS NDVI DATA (19826ndash;2006)
Authors: Chakraborty A. , Kumar Das P. , Sesha Sai M. V. R. , Behera G.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. NOAA-AVHRR bi-monthly NDVI data of 8×8 km for the period of 1982–2006 were used to analyze the trend of crop phenology matrices over Indian region. Time series principal component analysis of NDVI was performed to produce six calibration zones for fitting equations of temporal NDVI profile. Savitzky-Golay filter with different seasonality parameters, adaptation strengths and window sizes for different calibration zones were use to smoothen the NDVI profile. Three crop phenology matrices i.e. start of the growing season (SGS), Seasonal NDVI amplitude (AMP), Seasonally Integrated NDVI (SiNDVI) were extracted using TIMESAT software. Direction and magnitude of trends of these crop phenology matrices were analyzed at pixel level using Mann-Kendall test. Further the trends was assessed at meteorological subdivisional level using "Field significance test". Significant advancement of SGS was observed over Punjab, Haryana, Marathwada, Vidarbha and Madhya Maharashtra where as delay was found over Rayalaseema, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gangetic West Bengal and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal. North, West and central India covering Punjab, Haryana, West & East Uttar Pradesh, West & East Rajasthan, West & East Madhya Pradesh, Sourastra & Kutch, Rayalaseema, Marathwada, Vidarbha, Bihar and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal showed significant greening trend of kharif season. Most of the southern and eastern part of India covering Tamilnadu, South Interior Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Maharashtra, Gujarat region, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Gangetic West Bengal showed significant browning trend during kharif season.
INTER-ANNUAL VARIABILITY OF NET ECOSYSTEM PRODUCTIVITY OVER INDIA
Authors: Nayak R. K. , Dadhwal K. V. , Patel N. R. , Dutt C. B. S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The net ecosystem productivity (NEP) is the estimates of net carbon exchanges between the vegetation-soil system and the atmosphere. Estimates of NEP could play important role in defining a terrestrial ecosystem as a net source and sink of atmospheric CO2. We model monthly NEP over India for past 26 years (1981–2006) by incorporating satellite observations of vegetation index together with other climatic parameters in to efficiency based terrestrial ecosystem model. Results depict large spatial and temporal variability of NEP over India. NEP climatology over India showed that this region sequestered annually 9.4 Tg C (at the rate of 2.54 gC m-2) and hence appeared to be a net sink of atmospheric CO2. Strength of the CO2 sequestration over the country has been increased during the study period with average linear growth rate of 1.8 TgC yr-2
SATELLITE DRIVEN ESTIMATION OF PRIMARY PRODUCTIVITY OF AGROECOSYSTEMS IN INDIA
Authors: Patel N. R. , Dadhwal V. K. , Agrawal S. , Saha S. K.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Earth observation driven ecosystem modeling have played a major role in estimation of carbon budget components such as gross primary productivity (GPP) and net primary production (NPP) over terrestrial ecosystems, including agriculture. The present study therefore evaluate satellite-driven vegetation photosynthesis (VPM) model for GPP estimation over agro-ecosystems in India by using time series of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) from SPOT-VEGETATION, cloud cover observation from MODIS, coarse-grid C3/C4 crop fraction and decadal grided databases of maximum and minimum temperatures. Parameterization of VPM parameters e.g. maximum light use efficiency (ε*) and Tscalar was done based on eddy-covariance measurements and literature survey. Incorporation of C3/C4 crop fraction is a modification to commonly used constant maximum LUE. Modeling results from VPM captured very well the geographical pattern of GPP and NPP over cropland in India. Well managed agro-ecosystems in Trans-Gangetic and upper Indo-Gangetic plains had the highest magnitude of GPP with peak GPP during kharif occurs in sugarcane-wheat system (western UP) and it occurs in rice-wheat system (Punjab) during Rabi season. Overall, croplands in these plains had more annual GPP (> 1000 g C m-2) and NPP (> 600 g C m-2) due to input-intensive cultivation. Desertic tracts of western Rajasthan showed the least GPP and NPP values. Country-level contribution of croplands to national GPP and NPP amounts to1.34 Pg C year-1 and 0.859 Pg C year-1, respectively. Modeled estimates of cropland NPP agrees well with ground-based estimates for north-western India (R2 = 0.63 and RMSE = 108 g C m-2). Future research will focus on evaluating the VPM model with medium resolution sensors such as AWiFS and MODIS for rice-wheat system and validating with eddy-covariance measurements.
VULNERABILITY OF VEGETATION IN PARTS OF HIMALAYAS AND DYNAMIC GLOBAL VEGETATION MODELLING (DGVM) – STUDY USING VNIR AND THERMAL RESPONSES OF MODIS TIME SERIES DATA
Authors: Pujar G. S. , Harika B. , Murthy M. S. R. , Dadhwal V. K.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Vegetation responses to changing climate patterns need to be understood to devise adaptation strategy for a sustainable development, especially in the light of increasing climate related vulnerability. Dynamic Global Vegetation Models(DGVM) have the capacity and scope to develop understanding in this regard, due to their ability in simulating plant-vegetation-climate processes incorporating bioclimatic variables. However, prior to take up modelling using a spatially explicit DGVM, it may be imminent to prioritize the area for vulnerable contexts, so as to calibrate and validate the model optimally. Spatially explicit DGVMs require site level observations at canopy and leaf level/soil strata level for parametrization and implementation. Satellite data in VNIR and thermal regimes provide scope to understand the responses of various vegetation categories and enable to set up baseline addressing the foci of change as regions of vulnerability. Study carried out Western Himalayan transect using MODIS enhanced vegetation index and land surface temperature illustrates potential to differentiate areas that can be vulnerable due to warming trends disturbing cold to warm season energy level transition. Relations of these indices were studied in different vegetation categories and modelled spatially to derive potential vulnerable zones. Many sites showed high vulnerability while some sites showed distinct resilient behaviour by showing increase in EVI during warming periods. Potential zones were studied further using a spatially explicit Dynamic Global Vegetation Model for site level understanding. DGVM results in terms of biomass and carbon were studied to understand the trends in the vulnerable and resilient sites. Detailed characterisation of DGVM based modelling is underway to further diagnose the vulnerability contexts.
NASA EARTH EXCHANGE: NEXT GENERATION EARTH SCIENCE COLLABORATIVE
Authors: Nemani R.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The NASA Earth Exchange (NEX) is a collaboration platform for the Earth science community creating new ways for scientific interaction and knowledge sharing. NEX combines state-of-the-art supercomputing, Earth system modeling, workflow management, NASA remote sensing data feeds, and a social networking platform to deliver a complete work environment in which users can explore and analyze large datasets, run modeling codes, collaborate on new or existing projects, and quickly share results among the Earth science communities.The work environment provides NEX members with community supported modeling, analysis and visualization software in conjunction with datasets that are common to the Earth systems science domain. By providing data, software, and large-scale computing power together in a flexible framework, NEX reduces the need for duplicated efforts in downloading data, developing pre-processing software tools, and expanding local compute infrastructures–while accelerating fundamental research, development of new applications, and reducing project costs. The social networking platform provides a forum for NEX members to efficiently share datasets, results, algorithms, codes, and expertise with other members. Since all members''work environments reside on the collaborative platform, sharing may be done without the transfer of large volumes of data or the porting of complex codes– making NEX an ideal platform for building upon and exchanging research, and fostering innovation.
DESERT ECOSYSTEMS: MAPPING, MONITORING & ASSESSMENT USING SATELLITE REMOTE SENSING
Authors: Arya A. S. ,   Ajai, Dhinwa P. S. , Arya V. S. , Hooda R. S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Desert ecosystems are unique but fragile ecosystems , mostly vulnerable to a variety of degradational processes like water erosion, vegetal degradation, salinity, wind erosion , water logging etc. Some researchers consider desertification to be a process of change, while others view it as the end result of a process of change. There is an urgent need to arrest the process of desertification and combat land degradation. Under the auspices of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), Space Applications Centre, Ahmedabad has undertaken the task of mapping, monitoring and assessment of desertification carrying out pilot project in hot and cold desert regions in drylands on 1:50,000 scale followed by systematic Desertification Status Mappaing (DSM) of India on 1:500,000 scale.
MONITORING PHENOLOGICAL VARIABILITY ACROSS A TROPICAL SAVANNA ARIDITY GRADIENT WITH REMOTE SENSING ACROSS SEASONAL TO ANNUALAND EXTREME EVENTS
Authors: Huete A. , Eamus D. , Ma X. , Restrepo-Coupe N. , Boulain N. , Hutley L.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Tropical savannas are key components of the global carbon and water cycles and understanding their functioning is critical to understanding ecosystem feedbacks to global climate. By observing broad scale vegetation responses to climatic variability, remote sensing offers powerful insights into the patterns and processes underlying savanna behaviour. However, savannas are highly complex, multi-layer and heterogenous ecosystems composed of C3 (herbaceous) and C4 (woodland) components with asynchronous phenological responses to environmental controls. There are concerns about optimizing the detection of savanna functioning as well as in understanding their environmental controls with remote-sensing data due to their coarse resolution. Furthermore, seasonalphenologic variations in satellite observations need to be sufficiently accurate to ensure confidence in interpreting vegetation responses to interannual climatic variation and to aid in constraining models of carbon and water fluxes. In this study, we analysed several years of high temporal frequency MODIS and TRMM satellite data sets of vegetation dynamics and rainfall, respectively, to seasonal and interannual responses of savanna multifunctional components to climate variability across a tropical savanna aridity gradient (1760 to 580 mm annual rainfall) in northern Australia. We compared our results with a series of eddy covariance (EC) tower flux data of gross primary production and analyzed a wide set of ecosystem processes including photosynthesis, net primary productivity, phenological metrics in timing of the growing season, and rain use efficiencies. We found MODIS satellite measurements to yield highly accurate spatial and temporal variability in ecosystem functioning and able to replicate interannual patterns and responses to rainfall observed with the EC tower data. Although these results appear promising for regional extensions of satelliteflux tower relationships at the landscape level, we also observed various issues with footprint matching and hysteresis effects that potentially may limit the utility of remote sensing in scaling fluxes of carbon and water to the regional scales.
OIL DETECTION IN A COASTAL MARSH WITH POLARIMETRIC SAR
Authors: Ramsey E. , Rangoonwala A. , Suzuoki Y. , Bannister T.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The NASA UAVSAR was deployed June 2010 to support Deep Water Horizon oil spill response activities specifically, oil detection and characterization, oil extent mapping in wetlands, coastal resource impact detection, and ecosystem recovery. The UAVSAR platform demonstrated enhanced capability to act rapidly and provide targeted mapping response. Our research focused on the effectiveness of high spatial resolution and fully polarimetric L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (PolSAR) for mapping oil in wetlands, specifically within Barataria Bay in eastern coastal Louisiana. Barataria Bay contained a numerous site observations confirming spatially extensive shoreline oil impacts, multiple oil spill UAVSAR collections, and a near anniversary 2009 collection. PolSAR oil detection relied on decomposition and subsequent classifications of the single look complex (SLC) calibrated radar cross sections representing the complex elements of the scattering matrix. Initial analyses results found that shoreline marsh structural damage as well as oil on marsh plants and sediments without canopy structural damage were exhibited as anomalous features on post-spill SLC scenes but were not evident on the pre-spill SLC scene collected in 2009. Pre-spill and post-spill Freeman-Durden (FD) and Cloude-Pottier (CP) decompositions and the Wishart classifications seeded with the FD and CP classes (Wishart-FD) also highlighted these nearshore features as a change in dominate scatter from pre-spill to post-spill. SLC analyses also indicated penetration of oil ladened waters into interior marshes well past the immediate shorelines; however, these post-spill SLC analyses results could not be validated due to the lack of observational data and possible flooding in the pre-spill SLC scene.
USE OF EARTH OBSERVATION FOR GEOSPATIAL CROP WATER ACCOUNTING OF RAIN-FED AGRO-ECOSYSTEM IN INDIA
Authors: Patel N. R. , Manish S. , Kumar S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Use of earth observation by means of remote sensing and in-situ meteorological network in integrated manner have improved ability to track water availability and associated yield reduction in rain-fed crops as potential indicators of early warning and food security. the present study aims at monitoring of WRSI and production potential of rain-fed agro-ecosystems in eastern Rajasthan. The study was carried out during the kharif season using remote sensing, meteorology and soil information from year 1998 to 2004. Important datasets used in the study are Dekadal Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) from SPOT-VEGETATION, gridded rainfall based on 300 rain-gauge stations, reference ET (ETo), and gridded soil water holding capacity (WHC). In addition, crop statistics and crop calendar information were also used in this study. The phenological metrices from time-series of SPOT-VGT NDVI were derived on inter-annual scales by applying Gaussian fit within TIMESAT procedure. WRSI was found promising in capturing inter-annual and spatial variability in water availability to rain-fed crops. The WRSI has also showed significant relationship with reported yield particularly in drone-prone areas. Water limited-yield stays on higher side but it has showed strong response to large scale drought.
UNDERSTANDING SPATIAL VARIABILITY OF CROPPING SYSTEM RESPONSE TO CLIMATE CHANGE IN PUNJAB STATE OF INDIA USING REMOTE SENSING DATA AND SIMULATION MODEL
Authors: Tripathy R. , Ray S. S. , Kaur H. , Jalota S. K. , Bal S. K. , Panigrahy S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The present study investigated the impact of climate change, as projected by the Global Climate Model, HadCM3 for two different storyline (A2, B2), on the total crop production of Punjab state of India and its spatial variability for three future periods (2020, 2050 and 2080). Gridded weather data (1*1 degree) from India Meteorological Department was used as baseline weather. Daily future weather data were generated from baseline and projected change for each weather parameter (maximum and minimum temperature, rain fall). Both baseline and future weather data were then interpolated to 25*25 km grid level. The cropping system model, CropSyst was used for simulating the climate change impact on crop productivity. Cropping system map generated from remote sensing data for Punjab was used for finding the major cropping systems in each of the 25 km grid. Using this information cropping system productivity in each grid was estimated for baseline weather as well as for projected weather. Spatial pattern was generated for the difference in grid yield for each scenario. Results showed yield decline in all cropping systems except for few grids during 2020 in B2 scenario. Aggregated district yield indicated that for A2 scenario, in the near future (2020) Roopnagar (in eastern Punjab) will be the most affected district with around 35 % reduction in cropping system yield where as Hoshiarpur (in north-eastern part) will be most affected during 2050 and 2080. For B2 scenario, Hoshiarpur was found to be the most vulnerable region for all the three periods.