Reconciling the global terrestrial water budget using satellite remote sensing

Recent retrievals of multiple satellite products for each component of the terrestrial water cycle provide an opportunity to estimate the water budget globally. In this study, we estimate the water budget from satellite remote sensing over ten global river basins for 2003-2006. We use several satellite and non-satellite precipitation (P) and evapo-transpiration (ET) products in this study. The satellite precipitation products are the GPCP, TRMM, CMORPH and PERSIANN. For ET, we use four products generated from three retrieval models (Penman-Monteith (PM), Priestley-Taylor (PT) and the Surface Energy Balance System (SEBS)) with data inputs from the Earth Observing System (EOS) or the International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project (ISCCP) products. GPCP precipitation and PM (ISCCP) ET have less bias and errors over most of the river basins. To estimate the total water budget from satellite data for each basin, we generate merged products for P and ET by combining the four P and four ET products using weighted values based on their errors with respect to non-satellite merged product. The water storage change component is taken from GRACE satellite data, which are used directly with a single pre-specified error value. In the absence of satellite retrievals of river discharge, we use in-situ gauge measurements. Closure of the water budget over the river basins from the combined satellite and in-situ discharge products is not achievable with errors of the order of 5-25% of mean annual precipitation. A constrained ensemble Kalman filter is used to close the water budget and provide a constrained best-estimate of the water budget. The non-closure error from each water budget component is estimated and it is found that the merged satellite precipitation product carries most of the non-closure error.     

Application of eigenvector analysis to remote sensing of coastal water quality

Abstract

The use of algorithms incorporating radiance information from one or a number of wavelengths is a standard technique for detecting the concentration and distribution of water quality parameters in coastal and open ocean waters. It has become clear, however, that in a turbid dynamic coastal environment there is no one algorithm applicable for all times, seasons or area because the composition of the suspended material variescontinually. Consequently site specific algorithms have been proposed. Results of an eigenvector analysis of radiance spectra and sea-truth data collected as part of airborne remote sensing campaigns in 1984 and 1985 are presented. The eigenvectors of radiance data are shown to be dependent on the type and relative concentrations of material in suspension. The technique is shown to have great potential for the identification of the composition of material in suspension without recourse to sea-truth data. This information could be used as a criterion for selection of an appropriate algorithm.     

遥感卫星图像自动导航方法研究

遥感卫星图像自动导航方法用来自动地确定遥感卫星图像中每一个像素的地理经纬度,目前已经在气象、海洋、资源、环境、军事等领域得到了广泛应用,并且产生了巨大的社会和经济效益。介绍了一种新的基于最大相关系数的遥感卫星图像自动导航方法。首先给出了问题的描述;其次介绍了图像自动导航数据流程;然后设计并实现了一种新的基于最大相关系数的自动图像导航方法,它是整个遥感卫星自动导航的关键部分;最后给出了实例,验证了方法的可行性以及高精度。     

Applying support vector regression to water quality modelling by remote sensing data

This article applies a nonlinear machine learning method, support vector regression (SVR), to construct empirical models retrieving water quality variables using remote sensing images. Based on in situ measurements and high-resolution multispectral SPOT-5 (Satellite Pour l'Observation de la Terre) data, a fittest nonlinear function between input and output was obtained from this method, and SVR model parameters were selected automatically using a genetic algorithm (GA). The relationship between water quality variables – permanganate index (COD_Mn), ammonia-nitrogen (NH₃–N) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) – and spectral components of SPOT-5 data for the Weihe River in China was constructed by the proposed method. Spatial distribution maps for the three water quality variables were also developed. The results show that SVR can implement any nonlinear mapping, and produce better predictions than the traditional statistical multiple regression method, especially when samples are limited. With further testing, SVR can also be extended to hyperspectral remote sensing applications in the management of land and water resources.     

Attitude control system specifications for a remote sensing satellite

Abstract

Though the literature is replete with papers on remote sensing via space satellites, the specifications in terms of jitter and drift rate that have to be met by the specific mission, are often either over-specified or under-specified. In this paper the authors endeavour to present, through heuristic arguments, the effect of jitter and drift on picture quality, and to arrive at the proper specifications on attitude and orbit control systems for remote sensing satellites.     

Prospects for satellite remote sensing of Adelie penguin rookeries

Future conservation efforts are expected to require population statistics for Southern Ocean species, including penguins. Preliminary laboratory spectral reflectance measurements are presented of penguin plumage plus some of the major components of the Antarctic environment. A sketch is presented of the prospects for employing remote sensing systems for monitoring penguin populations on a regional scale.     

采用改进型IHS变换的遥感图像融合算法

在分析亮度一色度-饱和度(IHS)变换影像融合方法的基础上,针对IHS变换存在光谱特征扭曲的局限性,提出了一种采用分辨率退化模型的基于IHS变换的局部回归分析融合方法.采用SPOT的全色影像和TM的多光谱影像为实验数据,经多个统计参数的定量分析以及Matlab仿真实验的验证表明,该方法在空间分辨率和光谱分辨率上都达到了较好的效果.     

Mapping lake CDOM by satellite remote sensing

Given the importance of coloured dissolved organic matter (CDOM) for the structure and function of lake ecosystems, a method to estimate the amount of CDOM in lake waters over large geographic areas would be highly desirable. Advanced Land Imager (ALI) images were acquired in southern Finland (in 2002) and southern Sweden (in 2003) together with in situ measurements of bio-optical properties of 34 lakes (39 measuring stations). Based on this dataset, a band-ratio type algorithm was developed using ALI band 2 and band 3 for estimating CDOM content (absorption of filtrated water at 420 nm) in lakes. Correlation between in situ measured CDOM and the remote sensing estimate of CDOM was high, r²=0.73. The CDOM retrieval algorithm obtained on the basis of two images and in situ data was validated on a third ALI image (eastern Finland, 2002) that was available in the ALI image archive. In situ water-colour monitoring data from 22 lakes (27 measuring stations) in the third image were available in a database of the Finnish Environment Administration. The water-colour data were converted to CDOM absorption values, which were then compared to the results from a third ALI image. The correlation between remotely estimated and in situ CDOM values in the algorithm validation image was high, r²=0.83. These results support the conclusion that CDOM content in lakes over a wide range of concentrations (a_CDOM(420) between 0.68 and 11.13 m⁻¹) can be mapped using Advanced Land Imager data.     

Crop yield estimation by satellite remote sensing

Two methods for estimating the yield of different crops in Hungary from satellite remote sensing data are presented. The steps of preprocessing the remote sensing data (for geometric, radiometric, atmospheric and cloud scattering correction) are described. In the first method developed for field level estimation, reference crop fields were selected by using Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) data for classification. A new vegetation index (General Yield Unified Reference Index (GYURI)) was deduced using a fitted double-Gaussian curve to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) data during the vegetation period. The correlation between GYURI and the field level yield data for corn for three years was R ²=0.75. The county-average yield data showed higher correlation (R ²=0.93). A significant distortion from the model gave information of the possible stress of the field. The second method presented uses only NOAA AVHRR and officially reported county-level yield data. The county-level yield data and the deduced vegetation index, GYURRI, were investigated for eight different crops for eight years. The obtained correlation was high (R ²=84.6–87.2). The developed robust method proved to be stable and accurate for operational use for county-, region- and country-level yield estimation. The method is simple and inexpensive for application in developing countries, too.     

Using satellite remote sensing to monitor rocket launch induced pollution

With the expected increase in the number of rocket launches, it is becoming necessary to monitor the pollution associated with their exhaust plumes. In this article, we attempt to use satellite remote-sensing data sets to detect rocket plumes. Specifically, we check to determine whether a plume that is seen in satellite true colour imagery is captured by the aerosol optical thickness spatial distribution. This leads to better assessment of rocket exhaust properties. Terra and Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite data sets are used to observe the rocket plumes. We select case studies with various booster combinations (liquid propellant only or a combination of liquid and solid propellants). We also discuss the difficulties in identifying rocket plumes from remote-sensing data sets. However, our results from this work demonstrate a unique capability in monitoring human-made pollution and the extent the pollution can spread to surrounding areas.     

Oil spill detection by satellite remote sensing

This paper presents the state of the art for oil spill detection in the world oceans. We discuss different satellite sensors and oil spill detectability under varying conditions. In particular, we concentrate on the use of manual and automatic approaches to discriminate between oil slicks and look-alikes based on pattern recognition. We conclude with a discussion of suggestions for further research with respect to oil spill detection systems.     

A satellite remote sensing technique for geological structure horizon mapping

A satellite remote sensing technique is demonstrated for generating near surface geological structure data. This technique enables the screening of large areas and targeting of seismic acquisition during hydrocarbon exploration. This is of particular advantage in terrains where surveying is logistically difficult. Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) data and a high resolution digital elevation model (DEM), are used to identify the map outcropping horizons. These are used to reconstruct the near surface structure. The technique is applied in Central Yeman which is characterized by a 'layer-cake' stratigraphic section and low dipping terrain. The results are validated using two-dimensional seismic data. The near surface map images faults and structure not apparent in the raw data. Comparison with the structure map generated from two-dimensional seismic data indicates very good structural and fault correlation. The near surface map successfully highlights areas of potential closure at reservoir depths.     

Investigation into lossless hyperspectral image compression for satellite remote sensing

Hyperspectral sensors acquire images in many, very narrow, contiguous spectral bands throughout the visible, near-infrared (IR), mid-IR and thermal IR portions of the spectrum, thus requiring large data storage on board the satellite and high bandwidth of the downlink transmission channel to ground stations. Image compression techniques are required to compensate for the limitations in terms of on-board storage and communication link bandwidth. In most remote-sensing applications, preservation of the original information is important and urges studies on lossless compression techniques for on-board implementation. This article first reviews hyperspectral spaceborne missions and compression techniques for hyperspectral images used on board satellites. The rest of the article investigates the suitability of the integer Karhunen–Loève transform (KLT) for lossless inter-band compression in spaceborne hyperspectral imaging payloads. Clustering and tiling strategies are employed to reduce the computational complexity of the algorithm. The integer KLT performance is evaluated through a comprehensive numerical experimentation using four airborne and four spaceborne hyperspectral datasets. In addition, an implementation of the integer KLT algorithm is ported to an embedded platform including a digital signal processor (DSP). The DSP performance results are reported and compared with the desktop implementation. The effects of clustering and tiling techniques on the compression ratio and latency are assessed for both desktop and the DSP implementation.     

Barriers to adopting management expert systems: case studies of management accounting applications which failed

Abstract : The purpose of this paper is to draw attention to some important barriers to the practical application of expert systems to management problems. By drawing attention to these barriers, we show two findings: (a) that certain types of knowledge found in management situations are more likely to lead to the successful adoption of management expert systems (MESs) than others; (b) that a potential exists for an alternative form of MES application. The first finding has implications for knowledge elicitation. We propose that MESs developed from academic knowledge, which we define in specific terms, are more likely to succeed than those developed from working with managers in the field. Alternatively, feasibility studies should include an analysis of the type of knowledge which a manager is capable of providing to ensure that suitable knowledge is available for knowledge elicitation purposes. The second finding has implications for the developers of MESs at both research and commercial levels. We suggest the need for a check-list MES application, capable of converting responses to strategic and operational questions into managerial actions.     

Multi year satellite remote sensing of particulate matter air quality over Sydney,Australia

Particulate matter (PM) air‐quality information is usually derived from ground‐based instruments. These measurements, while valuable, are not well suited to provide air‐quality information over large spatial scales. In this study, using 4 years of satellite aerosol optical thickness (AOT) at 0.55 µm derived from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on board NASA's Terra and Aqua satellites, we present a multi‐year air analysis of PM air quality over Sydney, Australia. We then compare the satellite data with PM_2.5 mass concentration measurements from six ground‐based stations in the area. Our results indicate significant diurnal variations and an overall increase in PM_2.5 during Southern Hemisphere spring and summer seasons due to bush fires. The air quality in Sydney, Australia is good throughout the year except during major bushfires when PM_2.5 mass loading can increase from normal (<20 µg m^?3) to unhealthy conditions (>70 µg m^?3). The satellite data also show corresponding AOT changes from less than 0.1 to greater than 1.0 during bushfire events. We conclude that satellite data are an excellent tool for studying PM air quality over large areas, especially when ground measurements are not available. While this is the first multi‐year combined satellite and ground‐based air quality analysis over Sydney, ancillary information from lidars, sun photometers, and size‐resolved chemistry measurements will further enhance our capability to monitor and forecast air quality in and around Sydney.     

Regularized estimation of bathymetry and water quality using hyperspectral remote sensing

Coastal water mapping from remote-sensing hyperspectral data suffers from poor retrieval performance when the targeted parameters have little effect on subsurface reflectance, especially due to the ill-posed nature of the inversion problem. For example, depth cannot accurately be retrieved for deep water, where the bottom influence is negligible. Similarly, for very shallow water it is difficult to estimate the water quality because the subsurface reflectance is affected more by the bottom than by optically active water components.

Most methods based on radiative transfer model inversion do not consider the distribution of targeted parameters within the inversion process, thereby implicitly assuming that any parameter value in the estimation range has the same probability. In order to improve the estimation accuracy for the above limiting cases, we propose to regularize the objective functions of two estimation methods (maximum likelihood or ML, and hyperspectral optimization process exemplar, or HOPE) by introducing local prior knowledge on the parameters of interest. To do so, loss functions are introduced into ML and HOPE objective functions in order to reduce the range of parameter estimation. These loss functions can be characterized either by using prior or expert knowledge, or by inferring this knowledge from the data (thus avoiding the use of additional information).

This approach was tested both on simulated and real hyperspectral remote-sensing data. We show that the regularized objective functions are more peaked than their non-regularized counterparts when the parameter of interest has little effect on subsurface reflectance. As a result, the estimation accuracy of regularized methods is higher for these depth ranges. In particular, when evaluated on real data, these methods were able to estimate depths up to 20 m, while corresponding non-regularized methods were accurate only up to 13 m on average for the same data.

This approach thus provides a solution to deal with such difficult estimation conditions. Furthermore, because no specific framework is needed, it can be extended to any estimation method that is based on iterative optimization.     

Locating tuna forage ground through satellite remote sensing

A technique has been developed to assess tuna habitat using satellite derived ocean colour, water transparency and sea surface temperature. The scientific approach is based on the food and feeding habit and the preferential temperature range of tuna. Time series chlorophyll-a images of Indian Remote Sensing Satellite P4-Ocean Colour Monitor (IRS P4-OCM) have been analysed to define the critical phytoplankton patch size, its persistence and the optimal water transparency depth. Sea surface temperature (SST) data derived from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (NOAA-AVHRR) have been analysed to study the optimum temperature range in the surrounding waters. Results based on hindcasting indicate that the tuna forage ground derived from satellite data yielded high catch of tuna (>2% hooking rate). Study reveals that a minimum time delay of 5–7 days is required for a phytoplankton patch to mature to the forage ground. In addition, water transparency for facilitating sight feeding should be about 25–30 m depth. The thermal limit and preferential temperature range observed is 26–30°C and 26–28°C, respectively. Preliminary results based on limited validation are highly promising. However, an experimental forecast is being planned to validate this approach.     

Barriers to adopting technology for teaching and learning in Oman

This study investigates the perceived barriers to adopting information and communication technologies (ICT) in Omani higher education. One hundred faculty members from four different departments at the College of Applied Sciences in Oman participated in the study. The participants took a survey, which was developed based on the Western literature. Five factors were extracted from the survey: lack of equipment, lack of institutional support, disbelief of ICT benefits, lack of confidence, and lack of time. The findings showed that the faculty members perceived moderate degrees of barriers in applying ICT to their teaching practices. Group differences based on gender, academic rank, and academic field were generally not found except for the interaction effects on the barriers related to lack of equipment, disbelief of ICT benefits, and the overall mean. Male faculty members with less usage of ICT perceived more barriers regarding the lack of computing equipment, disbeliefs of ICT benefits, and the overall barrier than the female counterparts. It is recommended that the survey be further refined to include more subtle and culturally relevant items, larger sample sizes, and more heterogeneous samples to validate and extend the findings. Important implications of this study include a need to provide more institutional support, technical training, and personal time for faculty members to learn and upgrade their knowledge and skills in educational technologies.     

一种卫星遥感影像村庄区域提取算法

卫星遥感影像提取村庄区域在地理和气象领域均有十分重要的意义.针对卫星遥感影像的特点,提出了一种村庄区域提取方法.利用改进的去雾算法对卫星遥感影像进行预处理,通过遥感卫星影像的颜色特征实现分割,结合村庄区域分布特点进行去噪处理,实现卫星遥感影像村庄区域的提取.实验结果表明:该算法能够对卫星遥感图像中不同类型村庄区域进行提取,且提取准确率高,可以应用于地理以及气象等领域.     

面向存储资源优化的遥感卫星任务规划算法

针对遥感卫星的成像任务规划问题,按照任务重要性的不同,提出了两阶段调度策略,并设计了两个时间窗口选择规则。以星上存储资源优化为目标,利用地面站的下传活动将整个规划过程分为较小的调度区间,提出了可用存储空间上界估计算法计算每个调度区间的可调度存储资源容量,以此为基础对问题进行了简化,并给出了基于规则的启发式求解算法。实验结果表明,该算法是有效的。