Remote Sensing of Permafrost
Visible Spectrum Sensing
Remote sensing of cryosphere environments, including permafrost, can be accomplished through visible and infrared imagery with high spatial resolution for application towards small areas. Typical satellite sensors for high-resolution visible spectrum imagery include IKONOS and Quickbird.
Visible-spectrum sensing in the northern latitudes is faced with several issues, such as persistent cloud cover, seasonal darkness, and dramatic changes in sun angle throughout the year.
IKONOS
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The IKONOS Satellite is a high-resolution satellite operated by GeoEye. Its capabilities include capturing a 3.2m multispectral, near infrared/0.82m panchromatic resolution at nadir. Its applications include both urban and rural mapping of natural resources and of natural disasters, tax mapping, agriculture and forestry analysis, mining, engineering, construction, and change detection. It can yield relevant data for nearly all aspects of environmental study. IKONOS images have also been procured by SIC for use in the media and motion picture industries, providing aerial views and satellite photos for many areas around the world. Its high resolution data makes an integral contribution to permafrost monitoring.
Source: Satellite Imaging Corporation
Quickbird
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QuickBird imagery is a fine resolution remotely sensed product available to the public through Digital Globe. QuickBird's ultra fine resolution of 0.61m pixel resolution makes this valuable imagery for validation and land cover assessment.
Source: Satellite Imaging Corporation