Site Characterization Using Integrated Imaging Analysis Methods on Satellite Data of the Islamabad, Pakistan, Region

Creators: Yong, Alan; Hough, Susan E.; Abrams, Michael J.; Cox, Helen M.; Wills, Christopher J.; Similia, Gerry W.

Abstract

We develop an integrated digital imaging analysis approach to produce a first-approximation site characterization map for Islamabad, Pakistan, based on remote-sensing data. We apply both pixel-based and object-oriented digital imaging analysis methods to characterize detailed (1:50,000) geomorphology and geology from Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) satellite imagery. We use stereo-correlated relative digital elevation models (rDEMs) derived from ASTER data, as well as spectra in the visible near-infrared (VNIR) to thermal infrared (TIR) domains. The resulting geomorphic units in the study area are classified as mountain (including the Margala Hills and the Khairi Murat Ridge), piedmont, and basin terrain units. The local geologic units are classified as limestone in the Margala Hills and the Khairi Murat Ridge and sandstone rock types for the piedmonts and basins. Shear-wave velocities for these units are assigned in ranges based on established correlations in California. These ranges include Vs30-values to be greater than 500 m/sec for mountain units, 200–600 m/sec for piedmont units, and less than 300 m/sec for basin units. While the resulting map provides the basis for incorporating site response in an assessment of seismic hazard for Islamabad, it also demonstrates the potential use of remote-sensing data for site characterization in regions where only limited conventional mapping has been done.

Additional Information

© 2008 Seismological Society of America. Manuscript received 6 February 2008. We greatly appreciate the helpful review comments by Robert S. Dollar, Karen R. Felzer, and Martin Chapman, in addition to early discussions with Kenneth W. Hudnut and Edward H. Field. We also greatly appreciate technical guidance from David Hulslander and Keith Nicholson of ITT Visual Information Solutions and Matthias Stolz and John Parker of Definiens AG. David Coss Y. Leon contributed to the preparation of the maps for publication. Work done by Michael J. Abrams was performed at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory/California Institute of Technology, under a contract to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. We thank Linda Gundersen for partial support through the U.S. Geological Survey Working Capital Fund. Partial support was also provided by the California State University, Northridge (CSUN) CATALYST program, funded by National Science Foundation–Geoscience (Number NSF-GEO-0119936 [2001–2005] and Number 0503609 [2005–2009]).

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