MORPHOSTRUCTURAL ANALYSIS AS PART OF DETAILED REMOTE SENSING STUDIES OF THE VOLGOGRAD AREA

An approach to the use of large-scale remote sensing imagery in oil and gas exploration is described, and more specifically, the selection and interpretation of meaningful surface indicators to infer the existence of oil and gas traps in subsurface horizons. Through such “morphostructural” analysis arcuate, concentric relief elements often provide clues to the location of centers of ancient uplift and subsidence, which are then provisionally mapped along with other aspects of structure considered relevant in establishing the location of buried petroleum-bearing horizons. Translated from: Geomorfologiya, 1988, No. 1, pp. 69-73.     

ANALYSIS OF REMOTE SENSING IMAGERY IN ENGINEERING GEOMORPHOLOGY

An image interpretation technique known as “indicational analysis” is applied to engineering geomorphology–i.e., image characteristics visible on remote sensing imagery are used to infer (indicate) the presence of features that are not directly visible. In this case the identification of particular relief forms provides a basis for inferring the level of risk posed by geomorphological hazards to major construction projects such as railroads, pipelines, and highways. A key aspect of the procedure is a multiscalar approach, in which different components of the overall store of information brought to bear on a problem are obtained at different levels of interpretation. Translated from: Geomorfologiya, 1987, No. 2, pp. 35–42.     

GEOLOGIC INTERPRETATION OF ANTARCTICA'S MOUNTAINOUS REGIONS WITH SPACE IMAGERY

This paper demonstrates how ice-surface relief identified on space imagery can be used in mapping selected elements of the geologic structure of the Antarctic Peninsula. The mapping procedure is based on the fact that all major subglacial relief forms appear, albeit in subdued form, on the surface of slow moving and relatively thin ice sheets. Since subglacial bedrock relief reflects geologic structure, particular surface configurations of ice identified on space imagery can be used as indicators of major structural elements. Examples of the procedure, including imagery of ice relief and corresponding cartographic representations of underlying structure are provided for faults and ring structures. Translated from: Antarktika, AN SSSR Mezhduvedomstvennaya komissiya po izucheniyu Antarktiki, Doklady komissii [USSR Academy of Sciences Joint Commission on Antarctic Research, Commission Report], No. 24. Moscow, 1985, pp. 50-55. An article demonstrating the application of these methods in the compilation of a geologic map for a part of the Antarctic Peninsula will appear in a later issue.     

THE STUDY OF SOIL-VEGETATION DYNAMICS THROUGH REMOTE SENSING

Remote sensing imagery at widely varying scales is used in the analysis of the soil-vegetation cover of the west-central Siberia. Space imagery and smaller-scale air photographs initially are used to divide a study area into basic soil-vegetation complexes based on the criterion of figure outline. The internal structure of the complexes are then analyzed in greater detail, using larger-scale air photographs and a standard interpretation key based on selected field observations. Tonal-textural variations establish the ecological affiliations of separate elements within each complex and their dynamic states at a particular point in time. Translated from: Geografiya i prirodnyye resursy, 1985, No. 2, pp. 112-119.     

IMAGE INTERPRETATION AS A SYSTEM OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

The article provides insights derived from conceptualization of the totality of elements (subsystems) of image interpretation as part of a larger system of scientific research. Among the elements discussed in some detail in terms of their impacts on the appearance of features interpreted on remote sensing imagery include solar radiation, the atmosphere, distinctive characteristics of the surface of the area being imaged, the remote sensors employed for image recording, processing techniques, the image medium, and the “human” element (interpreter). It then describes an evolutionary process in image interpretation by which knowledge gained in early stages represents an input leading to refinement of approaches employed in later stages. A final section describes factors contributing to dynamics (“scintillation” or “flickering”) of features on imagery of the same area but recorded at different times or under different imaging conditions. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, VA 22308 from: Izvestiya Akademii Nauk, seriya geograficheskaya, 1993, No. 3, pp. 102-109.     

AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIES OF THE MARINE ECOLOGY OF THE WHITE SEA

Aerial photographic surveys of the White Sea have proven to be an effective means for studying the character of bottom relief and bottom sediments in shallow areas along its coast, particularly when film sensitive to visible radiation in the yellow-green range of the spectrum is used. More specifically, the article discusses methods of aerial photographic surveying, keys for the interpretation of different types of bottom sediments, methods of mapping underwater vegetation from air photos, and the potential of radar imagery for the indirect interpretation of bottom features. Sample interpretation maps from the White Sea are included. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, VA 22308 from Izvestiya Vsesoyuznogo Geograficheskogo Obshchestva, 1988, No. 4, pp. 314-321.     

USE OF SPACE PHOTOGRAPHS IN THE MAKING AND REVISION OF SMALL-SCALE MAPS

A brief review paper focuses on Soviet strategies for the use of space imagery, particularly photographic products (1:2,000,000 to 1:4,200,000 scale) from manned spaceflights, in the revision of small-scale general reference maps. Principles for the interpretation and mapping of basic map elements appearing on space photographs are outlined. Space photographs provide for reduction in time spent in map editing and the more correct analysis of the reliability of information and its generalization. A technology of map revision based on the joint use of original photographs and photomaps, with the transfer of revisions from photomaps to map originals, is proposed. Translated from: Geodeziya i kartografiya, 1986, No. 8, pp. 29-33.     

AN INSTRUMENT-AIDED METHOD OF INTERPRETING SCANNER IMAGERY OF THE EARTH'S CLOUD COVER

The author, noting the high cost and complexity of automated methods of processing imagery of the earth's cloud cover, presents a less sophisticated, instrument-aided method yielding similar results. A procedure for analyzing cloud cover patterns based on color synthesis of two-band scanner imagery from Soviet “Meteor” and American NOAA-series weather satellites using a synthesizing projector is outlined. This method adds the interpretation key of color to those of cloud structure and form in the analysis of cloud patterns, enhances cloud-underlying surface contrasts, and compares favorably with more highly automated methods in image preparation and interpretation time. Translated by Jay Mitchell; PlanEcon, Inc.; Washington, DC 20005 from: Izvestiya vysshykh uchebnykh zavedeniy, Geodeziya i aerofotos'yemka, 1987, No. 5, pp. 95-98.     

THE HISTORICAL GEOGRAPHY OF LANDSCAPES IN WESTERN IRAQ FROM SPACE IMAGERY

Space photography at 1:2,400,000 scale from the “Salyut-6” space station was used to compile maps on the evolution of arid landscapes in the Late Pleistocene and Holocene in western Iraq. The imagery made it possible to trace the development of many ancient natural features and to formulate an interpretation key of landscape elements—formed under a variety of past climatic environments, but subsequently evolving under common, somewhat similar natural conditions. This provides a basis for improved understanding the present state, history of formation, and future transformations of arid landscapes. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, VA 22308 from: Izvestiya Vsesoyuznogo Geograficheskogo Obshchestva, 1990, No. 3, pp. 255–260.     

AN INITIAL ATTEMPT AT INTERPRETING THE STRUCTURE OF MOUNTAINOUS AREAS IN THE WESTERN ANTARCTIC WITH SPACE IMAGERY

The second of two reports on the use of space imagery in the interpretation of Antarctica's geologic structure applies interpretation procedures described in an earlier article (see Mapping Sciences and Remote Sensing, 1985, No. 1) to produce a geologic map of a portion of the Antarctic Peninsula. Features identified on space imagery and depicted on the map include: a deep pericratonnal fault zone, a Mesozoic fold belt interrupted by a complex system of faults, and ring or annular structures of volcanic origin. Translated from: Antarktika, AN SSSR Mezhduve-domstvennaya komissiya po izucheniyu Antarktiki, Doklady komissii [USSR Academy of Sciences Joint Commission on Antarctic Research, Commission Report], No. 24. Moscow, 1985, pp. 43-49.     

IMPROVING ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT WITH A DATA BANK OF SPACE IMAGERY

The paper outlines a strategy for environmental management based on the joint use of space imagery and existing thematic map sets in monitoring the state of the environment in areas known as territorial human-environment complexes, proposed as regional-level units of nature management. Space imagery is also instrumental in the identification of these complexes prior to the onset of monitoring, a subject which is addressed in some detail at the start of the paper. Most extensive coverage is devoted to the organization and operation of a centralized, interdisciplinary data bank of remote sensing imagery, from which scenes are processed and interpretation maps distributed according to the specific needs of user organizations. Translated from: Geografiya i prirodnyye resursy, 1986, No. 2, pp. 138-142.     

ERRORS IN THE INDICATION OF GEOSYSTEMS FROM REMOTE SENSING IMAGERY

After a general discussion of principles of remote sensing indication and image recognition theory, the particular errors in this process are analyzed individually: errors in data recording; errors in automated image analysis; errors in interpretation of the content of geosystems; errors in the selection of interpretation keys; and finally errors in generalization and the extrapolation of results. The total error in geosystem indication from remote sensing imagery can be determined by an analysis of these particular errors. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, VA 22308 from: Geografiya i prirodnyye resursy, 1988, No. 4, pp. 98-107.     

REMOTE SENSING IN PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF CARTOGRAPHER-GEOGRAPHERS

The author reviews the contributions of the “aerospace” disciplines (remote sensing, photogrammetry, photometry) in the training of cartographers at Moscow University. Changes in the present curriculum are advocated, leading to the emergence of a unified educational discipline referred to alternately as “remote mapping methods,” or “remote sensing and mapping.” Training in this discipline is designed to enhance the interpretation and map compilation skills of cartographers working with space imagery. Translated from: Vestnik Moskovskogo Universiteta, geografiya, 1984, No. 5, pp. 40-43.     

COLOR SYNTHESIS OF MULTISPECTRAL IMAGERY FOR MAPPING PURPOSES

The authors describe common Soviet practice in the making of false-color composite imagery for visual interpretation. Also addressed are standard image interpretation techniques: figure-ground color contrast, color separation (number of color gradations occurring within an average contrast range), and so-called landscape indicator techniques. Related issues, such as selection of spectral bands and filters for specific interpretation tasks, and the changing reflectance characteristics of band-specific intermediate images, receive attention as well. Tables and figures illustrating relationships between photographic contrast, film contrast ratings, optical densities, and spectral bands are included. Translated from: Geodeziya i kartografiya, 1985, No. 4, pp. 41-46.     

MAPPING THE AVALANCHE HAZARD FOR MOUNTAINOUS AREAS OF AFGHANISTAN

The authors describe a procedure for the compilation of maps of the avalanche hazard in high-mountain regions of Afghanistan. The basic sources of information include space imagery (photographs and scanner imagery), weather station data, and other geographic information on relief, elevation, location of moisture sources, etc. The methodology features the compilation of series of increasingly more specific and informative maps and graphs regarding the avalanche hazard: terrain types, snow cover depth and seasonal extent, duration of snow cover and its elevational zonation, snow as a factor in avalanche formation, and summary map of avalanche hazard. Translated by Elliott B. Urdang, Providence, RI 02906 from: Materialy glyatsiologicheskikh issledovaniy, 1991, No. 71, pp. 86–93.     

SOIL-GEOBOTANICAL REGIONALIZATION FROM REMOTE SENSING IMAGERY

A multiscalar approach to mapping soil-vegetation regions from remote sensing imagery is outlined, using the West Siberian Lowland as a study area. At an initial stage small-scale space imagery is used to identify extensive soil-vegetation regions which extend across nearly the entire Lowland. Subsequent analysis focuses on identification and mapping of increasingly smaller units. The dominant criteria used for image interpretation and regionalization vary at each particular level of analysis, changing from vegetation structure and density at the smallest scales to soil “hydromorphism” (waterlogging) and topographic affiliations for intermediate- and large-scale units. Hydromorphic indicators are stressed as most important overall. Translated from: Distantsionnyye issledovaniya rel'yefa Sibiri, A. L. Yanshin and V. N. Sharapov, eds. Novosibirsk: Nauka, 1985, pp. 51-58.     

EXTRAPOLATION IN TIME OF REFERENCE DATA ON THE CONDITION OF NATURAL FEATURES: THE EXAMPLE OF WINTER WHEAT

The author outlines a method for extrapolating reference spectral data describing the condition of certain crops obtained for a particular point in time to periods for which reliable remote sensing data are not available. Examination of the correspondence between crop “condition classes,” identified through visual interpretation of aerial imagery, and actual yields/biomass for a number of phases of crop development of winter wheat for several crop years provides basic information for a probability matrix of the condition of a crop at times B, C, and D based on previous conditions at times A, B, and C. Translated from: Vestnik Moskovskogo Universiteta, geografiya, 1988, No. 4, pp. 73-79.     

AUTOMATED MAPPING FROM SCANNER IMAGE INTERPRETATION

A methodology for the interpretation and mapping of lineaments and related geological features from medium-resolution, Meteor satellite scanner imagery is described. Special emphasis is placed on improving traditional methods of transferring information interpreted from remote sensing materials onto a cartographic base through compensation for the special character of geometric distortion on scanner imagery and selection of appropriate map projections for the cartographic base. This boils down to the development of computer models for correlating control points on a scanner image and map base, and algorithms for the plotting both of that base and the thematic image elements that are the focus of interest. Translated from: Vestnik Moskovskogo Universiteta, geografiya, 1986, No. 3, pp. 35–40.     

SPECTRAL CORRELATIONS OF VEGETATION ASSOCIATIONS GROWING ON DIFFERENT GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURES

A method of correlating spectral signatures of vegetation with soil chemistry and, in turn, of inferring the presence of subsurface mineral deposits (oil in particular) is outlined. Variations in the content of nitrogen, sulfur, and trace elements in the soil, known to correspond, for example, with underground deposits of oil, induce changes in chlorophyll content of vegetation that are detectable on imagery in different zones of the spectrum, which upon statistical analysis can be used to predict the presence of oil in underlying strata. Translated from: Izvestiya vysshikh uchebnykh zavedeniy, Geodeziya i aerofotos'yemka, 1986, No. 4, pp. 88-93.