Imaging Spectroscopy from Space Applied for Geological Mapping

Thanks to its high spectral resolution, imagine spectroscopy (IS) technology provides information regarding the chemical composition and the distribution of the object under investigation based on its specific spectral signature. This research presents innovative methodology for the use of IS for geology and mineral mapping. In particular, the study focused on EO1 Hyperion satellite images acquired over the Israeli Timna Geologic Park and the Jordanian Dana reserve on both sides of the Arava valley. In the context of lateral movement along the Dead Sea Transform located in the Arava Valley, parallel rock formations on both sides of the valley were examined by IS means in order to asses the extent of the movement. IS technology was combined in this study with advanced mapping tools for the creation of an “intelligent” geologic map. A GIS model is presented that allows extraction of dip and strike information in a semi automated manner. The methodology presented and the results achieved are expected to have a valuable contribution to the future studies both in the fields of space-borne IS and for the understanding of geological spatial contexts in the Arava valley area.