Image processing of FORMOSAT‐2 data for monitoring the South Asia tsunami

Abstract

We report on the actions of the first daily revisit satellite, FORMOSAT‐2, in the recent Indian Ocean tsunami disaster. Starting from the first images of Banda Aceh and Phuket taken on 28 December 2004, FORMOSAT‐2 used its unique orbit and pointable sensor system to demonstrate the extent to which it is able to respond to emergencies. A total of 137 images throughout the Indian Ocean rim countries were taken within a month. The data were immediately analysed and turned into damage‐assessment maps and other information resources for humanitarian aid. This paper focuses on the image‐processing procedure followed for a fast response to the South Asia tsunami event. The imageodesy technique is used to coregister the level‐2 product of FORMOSAT‐2 image at high accuracy and speed. A novel approach for spectral reservation data fusion has also been proposed. With the advantages of accurate coregistration and reliable spectral property, the colour composites of FORMOSAT‐2 imagery have been used as the principle source of information for our tsunami hazard assessment. The potential of FORMOSAT‐2 for disaster monitoring is discussed. The technique developed in this research will be adapted to produce pan sharpened images as a standard value added product of FORMOSAT‐2.

Acknowledgements

We thank all colleagues at NSPO and DPRC for their efforts in collecting and processing the FORMOSAT‐2 imagery to assist the disaster assessment of the recent South Asia tsunami. We would also like to thank the anonymous reviewers for useful comments and suggestions. This research was supported by the National Science Council of Taiwan through grants NSC‐95‐2611‐M‐006‐002, NSC‐95‐2625‐Z‐006‐004‐MY3, and the Central Geology Survey of Taiwan through grants 5226902000‐07‐94‐01.