Dear Jocelyn Sukluta Please do recommend my answer if helpful
Structural mapping using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing involves the integration of geospatial data and satellite imagery to analyze and visualize geological structures and features on the Earth's surface. This technique is widely used in geological and environmental studies, mining, natural resource management, and land-use planning. Here's how structural mapping using GIS and remote sensing works:
Data Acquisition:Remote Sensing Data: Obtain satellite or aerial imagery with varying resolutions. High-resolution imagery is particularly useful for detailed structural analysis. Topographic Data: Obtain digital elevation models (DEMs) or topographic maps to understand the terrain and topography of the area. Geological Data: Collect existing geological maps, field data, and structural measurements to use as references.
Preprocessing:Georeference all data sources to ensure they align correctly in a common coordinate system. Correct for distortions, such as relief displacement in satellite imagery.
Image Enhancement:Enhance the quality of remote sensing images by adjusting contrast, brightness, and color balance to improve structural feature visibility.
Feature Extraction:Identify and extract geological features of interest, such as faults, folds, fractures, and lithological boundaries, from the imagery and topographic data.
Data Integration:Combine the extracted features with existing geological data to create a comprehensive structural map.
Analysis:Perform various spatial analyses to characterize the structural features, such as measuring orientations, lengths, and offsets of faults and folds. Analyze the relationship between geological structures and landforms.
Visualization:Create visual representations of the structural map using GIS software. This may include contour maps, 3D models, and cross-sections.
Interpretation:Geologists interpret the structural map to understand the geological history and potential implications for geological processes, mineral resources, and land use.
Modeling:Use the structural map to create geological models that can aid in predicting subsurface geological features or for mineral exploration.
Decision-Making:The structural map and associated data are used for land-use planning, natural hazard assessment, and resource management decisions.
Updates: Regularly update the structural map as new data becomes available or through additional fieldwork.
Structural mapping using GIS and remote sensing allows geologists and other stakeholders to gain a better understanding of the Earth's subsurface structures, which can have significant implications for various industries and environmental management. It enables more informed decision-making and resource exploration while reducing the need for extensive fieldwork.
Utilizing the LIDAR data can be beneficial since you can separate the ground and the open pits. Understanding the DSM and DTM will be of importance in this area.