Advances in Lithological and Structural Mapping Using Earth Observation Data

Dear Colleagues,

Geological mapping is traditionally carried out on the ground through field surveys.  However, field mapping in complex terrain can be laborious and inefficient, particularly over large areas and at large (detailed) mapping scales. Recent advances in Earth Observation techniques have, and continue to, revolutionise the way in which we study the geological composition and structure of Earth’s surface. In particular, remote sensing has provided a means of acquiring continuous, high-resolution data over large areas, therefore helping to overcome the limitations associated with field-based mapping. Nevertheless, the combination of remotely sensed data with in situ observations is synergistic in enabling us to gain a more comprehensive understanding of Earth’s geology.

This Special Issue of Geosciences focuses on recent advances in lithological and structural mapping using satellite, airborne and in situ Earth Observation data, with a particular emphasis on the application of new and state-of-the-art sensors, platforms and algorithms. The aim is to compile a collection of articles that provides a comprehensive and valuable reference for geoscientists, which addresses fundamental research questions and looks to the future to determine the Earth Observation requirements for significantly advancing the field in the next 10–20 years. Accordingly, we invite submissions relating to topics such as:

• Multi- and hyperspectral optical and thermal infrared sensors
• Geophysical data (e.g., gravity, magnetic, radiometric, seismic)
• LiDAR, digital elevation models and geomorphometry
• Applications in the use of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), Interferometric SAR, Polarimetry and Polarimetric Interferometry.
• In situ or proximal techniques (e.g., geochemical analysis, field spectroscopy)
• Innovative image enhancement techniques and classification algorithms
• Lineament extraction and structural mapping
• Integration of multi-source and multi-platform (i.e., satellite, airborne, in situ) data
• Overcoming the effects of dense vegetation on lithological and structural mapping
• Mineral exploration
• Use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
• Future geoscientific observational requirements

Dr. Kevin Tansey
Dr. Stephen Grebby
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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