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Since the launch
of the first civilian Earth observation satellite in 1972,
geologists have realised the utility of remotely sensed data.
The example below demonstrates how modern high resolution imagery
can be used to extract significant information not shown in
published mapping and expensive to obtain by conventional means.
High resolution IKONOS and Russian imagery provide excellent
interpretation tools for mineral and oil exploration. Even
when interpreting very large regions there is often a requirement
to focus in detail on specific areas of structural importance.
In areas of extremely high structural complexity, satellite
data with lower resolution would not resolve the fine stratigraphic
detail, leading to important clues to the geological history
of an area being overlooked.
Other important information for exploration logistics and
seismic planning is accessibility in remote terrain. High
resolution data can effectively detect some of the narrowest
tracks and paths as well as providing, through texture analysis,
information on the likely density and type of vegetation
that would be encountered. Mapping of licence areas often
requires identification of old well locations, which provide
an accurate geographic control for new base maps. The improved
resolution now obtainable with this data source can significantly
increase the confidence of their identification.
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