LANDSAT (MSS) imagery interpretation: A new perspective tool aiding regional hydromorphic mapping for groundwater exploration

With the advent of Remote Sensing via Satellites, specially the LANDSAT providing a synoptic overview of our Earth, a powerful new tool aiding in regional terrain analysis for natural resources surveys is now available to earth scientistis. Many significant earth features identifiable on LANDSAT images help to update regional surveys. Sequential coverage is an added advantage. Based on terrain analysis using LANDSAT imagery, and utilising the principles of visual interpretation to develop satellite photo-analytical keys highlighting landforms, drainage features and the like it is possible to delineate hydromorphic units for groundwater studies on a regional scale. The paper highlights the utility of LANDSAT imagery interpretation in small scale hydromorphic mapping for groundwater studies by citing examples from North and Central India. The advantage of conjunctive use of satellite, aircraft ann ground data in enhancing survey results is mentioned. The known and expected hydrologic conditions in the different hydromorphic units mapped have been given. The study approach is relatively new in India, and can be very useful in planning regional groundwater exploration programmes. The method is speedy and economical. Possibilities of similar studies in a host of other areas of survey such as flood studies, erosion surveys add a new dimension to the study of our Earth.