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Arie C. Seijmonsbergen - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Hybrid Geomorphological Mapping in the Cuesta Landscape of Luxembourg
    The Luxembourg Gutland Landscape, 2017
    Co-Authors: Arie C. Seijmonsbergen, L.w.s. De Graaff
    Abstract:

    A method to prepare hybrid Geomorphological maps of the cuesta landscape in Luxembourg is presented. A hybrid Geomorphological map is a combination of a classical Geomorphological map and digital Geomorphological information layers. The classical maps are hand drawn, utilize symbol-based legends and are printed as paper maps on a 1:10.000 scale. Digital information layers carry geospatial information that is stored in a geodatabase which is managed in a Geographic Information System (GIS). The digital Geomorphological information layers include attributes that describe additional information on genesis of landforms, materials composition, process type and process activity, or other conditions. The Geomorphological geodatabase serves as a repository for environmental information, which can flexibly be consulted by the end-user, e.g., for planning, land management, hazard assessment, or geoconservation purposes. Two types of Geomorphological maps are presented. The first is an overview map on the landscape scale which comprises main units belonging to the cuesta (cuesta plateau and cuesta front), and to the fluvial, mass movement, periglacial, organic, aeolian and the anthropogenic environment. The second type are hybrid Geomorphological maps, which here are used to show three detailed characteristic landscapes. These concern a former meander of the Sure near Bettendorf, the transition from the cuesta front to the fluvial landscape near Reisdorf, and a mass movement area along the cuesta front near Wallendorf.

  • segmentation optimization and stratified object based analysis for semi automated Geomorphological Mapping
    Remote Sensing of Environment, 2011
    Co-Authors: Niels Anders, Arie C. Seijmonsbergen, W Bouten
    Abstract:

    Semi-automated Geomorphological Mapping techniques are gradually replacing classical techniques due to increasing availability of high-quality digital topographic data. In order to efficiently analyze such large amounts of data, there is a need for optimizing the processing of automated Mapping techniques. In this context, we present a novel approach to semi-automatically map alpine geomorphology using stratified object-based image analysis. We used a 1 m Digital Terrain Model (DTM) derived from laser altimetry data from a mountainous catchment from which we calculated various Land-Surface Parameters (LSPs). The LSPs ‘slope angle’ and ‘topographic openness’ have been combined into a single composite layer for selecting reference material and delineating training samples. We developed a novel method to semi-automatically assess segmentation results by comparing 2D frequency distribution matrices of training samples and image objects. The segmentation accuracy assessment allowed us to automate optimization of the scale parameter and LSPs used for segmentation. We concluded that different Geomorphological feature types have different sets of optimal segmentation parameters. The feature-dependent parameters were used in a new approach of stratified feature extraction for classifying karst, glacial, fluvial and denudational landforms. In this way, we have used stratified object-based image analysis to semi-automatically extract contrasting Geomorphological features from high-resolution digital terrain data. A further step would be to also automate the optimization of classification rules. We would then be able to create a library of feature characteristics that could be transferred and applied to other mountain regions and further automate Geomorphological Mapping strategies.

  • Multi-scale and object-oriented image analysis of high-res LiDAR data for Geomorphological Mapping in alpine mountains
    2009
    Co-Authors: Niels Anders, Arie C. Seijmonsbergen, Willem Bouten
    Abstract:

    Geomorphological maps are useful to a wide variety of applications, such as hazard risk analysis (Seijmonsbergen 1992), forest ecological research (Van Noord 1996) and geoconservation evaluation studies (Seijmonsbergen et al. in press). Traditional field-based Geomorphological Mapping strategies are often time consuming and the accuracy of these methods is questionable in steep and difficult-to-access terrain. Topographic analysis of remotely sensed digital elevation data is a potential tool to speed up and increase accuracy of the Mapping procedure. Recent studies argue that image segmentation and object-oriented classification strategies are intuitive to (semi-) automatically produce a classified hillslope or Geomorphological map (Drăguţ and Blaschke 2006; Van Asselen and Seijmonsbergen 2006) based on Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and their derivatives. However, an accurate identification and classification of individual landforms and their genesis remains a challenge, partly due to the multi-scale nature of Geomorphological processes. This research-in-progress is part of a PhD project for developing a method to classify image objects on their Geomorphological nature in a multi-scale framework, based on geomorphometric parameters derived from high-resolution LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) data. In future research, we will integrate this detailed LiDAR-derived Geomorphological information in a dynamic simulation model to facilitate landscape evolution research in complex and difficult-to-access terrain at greater detail than before.

  • A new symbol-and-GIS based detailed Geomorphological Mapping system: Renewal of a scientific discipline for understanding landscape development
    Geomorphology, 2006
    Co-Authors: Marcus Gustavsson, Else Kolstrup, Arie C. Seijmonsbergen
    Abstract:

    This paper presents a comprehensive and flexible new Geomorphological combination legend that expands the possibilities of current Geomorphological Mapping concepts. The new legend is presented here at scale of 1:10,000 and it combines symbols for hydrography, morphometry/morphography, lithology and structure with colour variations for process/genesis and geologic age. The piece-by-piece legend forms a “Geomorphological alphabet” that offers a high diversity of Geomorphological information and a possibility for numerous combinations of information. This results in a scientific map that is rich in data and which is more informative than most previous maps but is based on a simple legend. The system is developed to also be used as a basis for applications in GIS. The symbol-based information in the Geomorphological maps can be digitally stored as a powerful database with thematic layers and attribute tables. By combining and further developing aspects of different classical Mapping systems and techniques into expanded data combinations, new possibilities of presentation and storage are developed and thus a strong scientific tool is provided for landscape configuration and the reconstruction of its development; in turn the combination paves the way for specific thematic applications. The new system is illustrated for two contrasting landscape types: the first is located on the border of Vorarlberg, western Austria, and Liechtenstein in a glacially influenced, high altitude alpine setting that is strongly modified by various degradation processes; the second area represents a formerly glaciated region in Dalarna, central Sweden near Mora, an area that is characterized by a variety of aeolian, fluvial, glaciofluvial and lacustrine depositional and erosional landforms and also reflects isostatic uplift. The new method functions well for both areas and results in detailed scientific outlines of both landscape types.

  • A new symbol-and-GIS based detailed Geomorphological Mapping system: Renewal of a scientific discipline for understanding landscape development
    Geomorphology, 2006
    Co-Authors: Marcus Gustavsson, Else Kolstrup, Arie C. Seijmonsbergen
    Abstract:

    Abstract This paper presents a comprehensive and flexible new Geomorphological combination legend that expands the possibilities of current Geomorphological Mapping concepts. The new legend is presented here at scale of 1:10,000 and it combines symbols for hydrography, morphometry/morphography, lithology and structure with colour variations for process/genesis and geologic age. The piece-by-piece legend forms a ¿Geomorphological alphabet¿ that offers a high diversity of Geomorphological information and a possibility for numerous combinations of information. This results in a scientific map that is rich in data and which is more informative than most previous maps but is based on a simple legend. The system is developed to also be used as a basis for applications in GIS. The symbol-based information in the Geomorphological maps can be digitally stored as a powerful database with thematic layers and attribute tables. By combining and further developing aspects of different classical Mapping systems and techniques into expanded data combinations, new possibilities of presentation and storage are developed and thus a strong scientific tool is provided for landscape configuration and the reconstruction of its development; in turn the combination paves the way for specific thematic applications. The new system is illustrated for two contrasting landscape types: the first is located on the border of Vorarlberg, western Austria, and Liechtenstein in a glacially influenced, high altitude alpine setting that is strongly modified by various degradation processes; the second area represents a formerly glaciated region in Dalarna, central Sweden near Mora, an area that is characterized by a variety of aeolian, fluvial, glaciofluvial and lacustrine depositional and erosional landforms and also reflects isostatic uplift. The new method functions well for both areas and results in detailed scientific outlines of both landscape types. Keywords: Geomorphological Mapping; GIS; Austria; Sweden; Landscape analysi

W Bouten - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • segmentation optimization and stratified object based analysis for semi automated Geomorphological Mapping
    Remote Sensing of Environment, 2011
    Co-Authors: Niels Anders, Arie C. Seijmonsbergen, W Bouten
    Abstract:

    Semi-automated Geomorphological Mapping techniques are gradually replacing classical techniques due to increasing availability of high-quality digital topographic data. In order to efficiently analyze such large amounts of data, there is a need for optimizing the processing of automated Mapping techniques. In this context, we present a novel approach to semi-automatically map alpine geomorphology using stratified object-based image analysis. We used a 1 m Digital Terrain Model (DTM) derived from laser altimetry data from a mountainous catchment from which we calculated various Land-Surface Parameters (LSPs). The LSPs ‘slope angle’ and ‘topographic openness’ have been combined into a single composite layer for selecting reference material and delineating training samples. We developed a novel method to semi-automatically assess segmentation results by comparing 2D frequency distribution matrices of training samples and image objects. The segmentation accuracy assessment allowed us to automate optimization of the scale parameter and LSPs used for segmentation. We concluded that different Geomorphological feature types have different sets of optimal segmentation parameters. The feature-dependent parameters were used in a new approach of stratified feature extraction for classifying karst, glacial, fluvial and denudational landforms. In this way, we have used stratified object-based image analysis to semi-automatically extract contrasting Geomorphological features from high-resolution digital terrain data. A further step would be to also automate the optimization of classification rules. We would then be able to create a library of feature characteristics that could be transferred and applied to other mountain regions and further automate Geomorphological Mapping strategies.

Marcus Gustavsson - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • New Geomorphological Mapping system used at different scales in a Swedish glaciated area
    Geomorphology, 2009
    Co-Authors: Marcus Gustavsson, Else Kolstrup
    Abstract:

    Abstract A new, detailed Geomorphological Mapping system is tested at different scales for presentation of landscape configuration and interpretation of landscape development of a formerly glaciated area near Mora in central Sweden. The Geomorphological maps are based on fieldwork supported by aerial photographs. The area contains landforms created by mass movement, glacial, glaciofluvial, fluvial, lacustrine, aeolian and anthropogenic processes. In addition, Geomorphological effects of isostatic uplift, which has caused a c. 220 m rise of the former Ancylus lake shoreline in the area since the deglaciation, can be seen. The new system is tested at scales 1:5000, 1:25,000 and 1:50,000 using the same legend. At the largest scale information on morphography/morphometry, lithology, and hydrography are included in the map as are details on polygenetic origins of landforms. With each step from the 1:5000 to the 1:50,000 scale some generalisation is needed at the cost of descriptive detail. In turn, with smaller scale, the general overview of the area increases and the impression from the map gradually becomes more dominated by genesis. The emphasis of the map thus changes from a presentation with a high level of descriptive information at the largest scale to a more interpretative overview at smaller scales. The scale transformation shows that the Geomorphological presentation of the landscape is a function of both the landscape hierarchy and the Geomorphological context within an area. The use of the new Geomorphological Mapping system at the three scales shows that the tested Mapping legend can be used without modification from one scale to another. This is mainly because the Geomorphological information parameters are separated in the legend, and that explanatory information is gained from combinations of them. The possibility to apply the same legend at different scales for an area facilitates the choice of an appropriate Mapping scale for specific purposes and applications. The new Mapping system also has the advantage that the data can be easily transformed into a GIS ESRI geodatabase containing the same “raw-data” as the original map. The differences of information at the different scales illustrate problems that are also relevant for use and presentation of Geomorphological data in a GIS and three examples of scale problems in relation to GIS data handling are outlined.

  • A new symbol-and-GIS based detailed Geomorphological Mapping system: Renewal of a scientific discipline for understanding landscape development
    Geomorphology, 2006
    Co-Authors: Marcus Gustavsson, Else Kolstrup, Arie C. Seijmonsbergen
    Abstract:

    This paper presents a comprehensive and flexible new Geomorphological combination legend that expands the possibilities of current Geomorphological Mapping concepts. The new legend is presented here at scale of 1:10,000 and it combines symbols for hydrography, morphometry/morphography, lithology and structure with colour variations for process/genesis and geologic age. The piece-by-piece legend forms a “Geomorphological alphabet” that offers a high diversity of Geomorphological information and a possibility for numerous combinations of information. This results in a scientific map that is rich in data and which is more informative than most previous maps but is based on a simple legend. The system is developed to also be used as a basis for applications in GIS. The symbol-based information in the Geomorphological maps can be digitally stored as a powerful database with thematic layers and attribute tables. By combining and further developing aspects of different classical Mapping systems and techniques into expanded data combinations, new possibilities of presentation and storage are developed and thus a strong scientific tool is provided for landscape configuration and the reconstruction of its development; in turn the combination paves the way for specific thematic applications. The new system is illustrated for two contrasting landscape types: the first is located on the border of Vorarlberg, western Austria, and Liechtenstein in a glacially influenced, high altitude alpine setting that is strongly modified by various degradation processes; the second area represents a formerly glaciated region in Dalarna, central Sweden near Mora, an area that is characterized by a variety of aeolian, fluvial, glaciofluvial and lacustrine depositional and erosional landforms and also reflects isostatic uplift. The new method functions well for both areas and results in detailed scientific outlines of both landscape types.

  • Geomorphological Mapping and weathering studies in the Tarfala valley, northern Sweden
    2006
    Co-Authors: Marcus Gustavsson
    Abstract:

    This thesis presents a method for detailed landscape presentation. The method incorporates both fieldwork-based comprehensive Geomorphological description and digital data handling and thus contributes in filling the gap between traditional Geomorphological Mapping and modern Geomorphological studies performed in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).The main part of the thesis relates to development of a new detailed Geomorphological Mapping system, constructed to be easy to use and yet present a large amount of Geomorphological information. The legend of the Mapping system has successfully been applied to various types of landscapes, mapped at various scales between 1:5,000 and 1:50,000 without any modifications needed. The information presented in the map is based on simple descriptive criteria and thus the subjectivity is kept low, which enables a broad field of usage. In parallel with the Mapping system a GIS-based Geomorphological database has been developed. The structure and data presentation of the new Mapping system allows for easy transformation of the data to form part of this database. The selected format of the GIS database is the ESRI ArcGIS®, Personal geodatabase.In the development of the Geomorphological Mapping system four field areas have been mapped in central (Bonas, Risa and Liden) and northern Sweden (Tarfala). In addition the new legend has been adapted to a field area situated in Vorarlberg, Austria (Upper Gamperdona valley).In relation to the Tarfala field area an added issue of the project has been to give insights in the effects of physical and chemical weathering on various rock types to see if this can be detected in materials and landforms. The results from this study point at that resistance towards weathering vary among rocks even though they are of same rock type.

  • A new symbol-and-GIS based detailed Geomorphological Mapping system: Renewal of a scientific discipline for understanding landscape development
    Geomorphology, 2006
    Co-Authors: Marcus Gustavsson, Else Kolstrup, Arie C. Seijmonsbergen
    Abstract:

    Abstract This paper presents a comprehensive and flexible new Geomorphological combination legend that expands the possibilities of current Geomorphological Mapping concepts. The new legend is presented here at scale of 1:10,000 and it combines symbols for hydrography, morphometry/morphography, lithology and structure with colour variations for process/genesis and geologic age. The piece-by-piece legend forms a ¿Geomorphological alphabet¿ that offers a high diversity of Geomorphological information and a possibility for numerous combinations of information. This results in a scientific map that is rich in data and which is more informative than most previous maps but is based on a simple legend. The system is developed to also be used as a basis for applications in GIS. The symbol-based information in the Geomorphological maps can be digitally stored as a powerful database with thematic layers and attribute tables. By combining and further developing aspects of different classical Mapping systems and techniques into expanded data combinations, new possibilities of presentation and storage are developed and thus a strong scientific tool is provided for landscape configuration and the reconstruction of its development; in turn the combination paves the way for specific thematic applications. The new system is illustrated for two contrasting landscape types: the first is located on the border of Vorarlberg, western Austria, and Liechtenstein in a glacially influenced, high altitude alpine setting that is strongly modified by various degradation processes; the second area represents a formerly glaciated region in Dalarna, central Sweden near Mora, an area that is characterized by a variety of aeolian, fluvial, glaciofluvial and lacustrine depositional and erosional landforms and also reflects isostatic uplift. The new method functions well for both areas and results in detailed scientific outlines of both landscape types. Keywords: Geomorphological Mapping; GIS; Austria; Sweden; Landscape analysi

Mike J Smith - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Geomorphological Mapping methods and applications
    2011
    Co-Authors: J S Griffiths, Mike J Smith, Paolo Paron
    Abstract:

    "Geomorphological Mapping: A professional Handbook of Techniques and Applications" is a new book targeted at academics and practitioners who use, or wish to utilise, Geomorphological Mapping within their work. Synthesising for the first time an historical perspective to Geomorphological Mapping, this title features field based and digital tools and techniques for Mapping and an extensive array of case studies from academics and professionals active in the area. Those active in geomorphology, engineering geology, reinsurance, Environmental Impact Assessors, and allied areas, will find the text of immense value. This title covers growth of interest in Geomorphological Mapping and currently no texts comprehensively cover this topic. It features extensive case studies that will appeal to professionals, academics and students (with extensive use of diagrams, potentially colour plates). It brings together material on digital Mapping (GIS and remote sensing), cartography and data sources with a focus on modern technologies (including GIS, remote sensing and digital terrain analysis). It provides readers with summaries of current advances in methodological/technical aspects. It is accompanied by electronic resources for digital Mapping.

  • Introduction to Applied Geomorphological Mapping
    Developments in Earth Surface Processes, 2011
    Co-Authors: J S Griffiths, Mike J Smith, Paolo Paron
    Abstract:

    Publisher Summary This chapter presents an introduction to applied Geomorphological Mapping. Geomorphology is part of the broad range of disciplines that fall under the general heading of earth sciences, which includes both geology and geography. The chapter discusses the history of Geomorphological Mapping, focusing upon the development of methods and their evolution within different national schools. It also outlines the aims and objectives of Mapping and looks at quantitative risk assessment. Techniques of applied Geomorphological Mapping are also discussed in the chapter including traditional field Mapping along with several digital data gathering techniques for Mapping. Finally, the chapter presents several examples of industrial applications of Geomorphological maps from a variety of environmental settings to demonstrate the wide range and application of Mapping in both academic and professional arenas.

  • Future Developments of Geomorphological Mapping
    Developments in Earth Surface Processes, 2011
    Co-Authors: Mike J Smith, J S Griffiths, Paolo Paron
    Abstract:

    Publisher Summary The formalization of Geomorphological Mapping as a central platform for recording landform data cemented its role as a key organizational framework for the study of landforms, their history, materials and the processes associated with them. Landforms are composed of ‘stuff ’, and remotely sensed imagery (principally satellite imagery) provides information on electromagnetic reflectance at different wavelengths. The increasing resolution of geophysical data gathering technologies in the marine environment has revolutionized the investigation of submarine landforms. High-resolution bathymetric maps can now be compiled through the use of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) or autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). This high-resolution information is used in conjunction with bathymetry, side-scan data and seismic reflection surveying collected by surface vessels to provide detailed images of the seabed that are then subject to Geomorphological interpretation. These technologies help in capturing massive data sets at higher resolutions over shorter timescales and with increased frequency. This provides a revolutionizing change to the analysis and understanding of the Earth's surface. Geographic information systems (GIS) provide the ideal management solution to Geomorphological Mapping.

  • residual relief separation digital elevation model enhancement for Geomorphological Mapping
    Earth Surface Processes and Landforms, 2008
    Co-Authors: J K Hiller, Mike J Smith
    Abstract:

    Geomorphologically mapped data form a primary set of observations that can be used to infer former environmental conditions. Thus, objective and consistent Mapping of landforms from remotely sensed data (e.g. satellite imagery, digital elevation models (DEMs)) is paramount for reconstructing palaeoenvironments. This paper proposes a technique, residual relief separation, to enhance landforms in DEMs prior to visualization and digital Mapping. This is applied to a 600 km2 region surrounding Lough Gara, Ireland, where drumlins (200 m wide) overlie a regional relief of hills (10 km wide). Here, residual relief separation uses this difference in width-scale. Regional relief is approximated by a 1 km wide median filter, then subtracted to leave the drumlins in a residual topography. In a second step, the residual relief is normalized to allow for amplitude variations in the drumlins across the area (5-40 m high). Finally, visualization uses a simple black-to-white colour scale for height. Although not numerically outperforming other visualization techniques, this method performs equally well, and as the data are not illuminated there is no azimuthal bias. Additional benefits include the relatively simple calculation, intuitive visual comprehension, no emphasis of noise, and the possibility of using any desired visualization technique after the landscape has been topographically manipulated

  • Editorial: Applied Geomorphological Mapping
    Journal of Maps, 2008
    Co-Authors: Paolo Paron, Mike J Smith
    Abstract:

    Mapping forms and deposits, and inferring processes, of a landscape is avery complex exercise (Demek,1982). Its diculty lies, on the one hand, inthe challenge of identifying the processes themselves, their spatial andtemporal extent (including the magnitude of activity) and the underlyingbase rocks (both in the eld and through desk based analysis) and, on theother hand, the implementation of e ective cartographic representation.General Geomorphological maps are often driven by the need to understandthe evolution of a portion of the landscape and a need to forecast futureevolutionary trends. They have thus become a major research instrumentin their own right (Hayden,1986). Applied Geomorphological Mapping hasto consider the evolution of the area under investigation, even if the speci cobjectives are more limited.The cartographic representation of Geomorphological information posessome distinct challenges. To improve readability of Geomorphological mapsone approach is to reduce the complexity of the cartographic elementsfavouring a \question-driven" approach, representing fewer processes at atime on the same map (e.g.Savigear,1965;St-Onge, D. A.,1968). In thisway the map is more readable for the user and the fundamental needs ofimproving land planning can be easily and more eciently passed on toland managers. This issue also relates to the need for an increasedinterdisciplinary dialogue between geomorphologists and other professionals(Grith and Hearn,1990).Another approach is the adoption of recent digital analysis and visualizationtechniques. Increased computer power (both hardware and software) not

Frank Lehmkuhl - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • evaluation of tandem x elevation data for Geomorphological Mapping and interpretation in high mountain environments a case study from se tibet china
    Geomorphology, 2015
    Co-Authors: Isabel Pipaud, David Loibl, Frank Lehmkuhl
    Abstract:

    Abstract Digital elevation models (DEMs) are a prerequisite for many different applications in the field of geomorphology. In this context, the two near-global medium resolution DEMs originating from the SRTM and ASTER missions are widely used. For detailed Geomorphological studies, particularly in high mountain environments, these datasets are, however, known to have substantial disadvantages beyond their posting, i.e., data gaps and miscellaneous artifacts. The upcoming TanDEM-X DEM is a promising candidate to improve this situation by application of state-of-the-art radar technology, exhibiting a posting of 12 m and less proneness to errors. In this study, we present a DEM processed from a single TanDEM-X CoSSC scene, covering a study area in the extreme relief of the eastern Nyainqentanglha Range, southeastern Tibet. The potential of the resulting experimental TanDEM-X DEM for Geomorphological applications was evaluated by geomorphometric analyses and an assessment of landform cognoscibility and artifacts in comparison to the ASTER GDEM and the recently released SRTM 1″ DEM. Detailed Geomorphological Mapping was conducted for four selected core study areas in a manual approach, based exclusively on the TanDEM-X DEM and its basic derivates. The results show that the self-processed TanDEM-X DEM yields a detailed and widely consistent landscape representation. It thus fosters Geomorphological analysis by visual and quantitative means, allowing delineation of landforms down to footprints of ~ 30 m. Even in this premature state, the TanDEM-X elevation data are widely superior to the ASTER and SRTM datasets, primarily owing to its significantly higher resolution and its lower susceptibility to artifacts that hamper landform interpretation. Conversely, challenges toward interferometric DEM generation were identified, including (i) triangulation facets and missing topographic information resulting from radar layover on steep slopes facing toward the radar sensor, (ii) low coherence values on leeward slopes, (iii) decorrelation effects over water bodies, and (iv) challenges for phase unwrapping in settings of strong topographic contrasts. There is, however, a high probability that these drawbacks can be overcome by applying multiple interferograms exhibiting different perpendicular baselines as planned for the generation of the final TanDEM-X DEM product.

  • Evaluation of TanDEM-X elevation data for Geomorphological Mapping and interpretation in high mountain environments — A case study from SE Tibet, China
    Geomorphology, 2015
    Co-Authors: Isabel Pipaud, David Loibl, Frank Lehmkuhl
    Abstract:

    Abstract Digital elevation models (DEMs) are a prerequisite for many different applications in the field of geomorphology. In this context, the two near-global medium resolution DEMs originating from the SRTM and ASTER missions are widely used. For detailed Geomorphological studies, particularly in high mountain environments, these datasets are, however, known to have substantial disadvantages beyond their posting, i.e., data gaps and miscellaneous artifacts. The upcoming TanDEM-X DEM is a promising candidate to improve this situation by application of state-of-the-art radar technology, exhibiting a posting of 12 m and less proneness to errors. In this study, we present a DEM processed from a single TanDEM-X CoSSC scene, covering a study area in the extreme relief of the eastern Nyainqentanglha Range, southeastern Tibet. The potential of the resulting experimental TanDEM-X DEM for Geomorphological applications was evaluated by geomorphometric analyses and an assessment of landform cognoscibility and artifacts in comparison to the ASTER GDEM and the recently released SRTM 1″ DEM. Detailed Geomorphological Mapping was conducted for four selected core study areas in a manual approach, based exclusively on the TanDEM-X DEM and its basic derivates. The results show that the self-processed TanDEM-X DEM yields a detailed and widely consistent landscape representation. It thus fosters Geomorphological analysis by visual and quantitative means, allowing delineation of landforms down to footprints of ~ 30 m. Even in this premature state, the TanDEM-X elevation data are widely superior to the ASTER and SRTM datasets, primarily owing to its significantly higher resolution and its lower susceptibility to artifacts that hamper landform interpretation. Conversely, challenges toward interferometric DEM generation were identified, including (i) triangulation facets and missing topographic information resulting from radar layover on steep slopes facing toward the radar sensor, (ii) low coherence values on leeward slopes, (iii) decorrelation effects over water bodies, and (iv) challenges for phase unwrapping in settings of strong topographic contrasts. There is, however, a high probability that these drawbacks can be overcome by applying multiple interferograms exhibiting different perpendicular baselines as planned for the generation of the final TanDEM-X DEM product.