Glacier Mapping and Monitoring Using Multispectral Data

Multispectral satellite data represent the primary data source for spaceborne glacier mapping and monitoring, and remote-sensing studies have generated significant results regarding global glacier observations and understandings. In this chapter we provide an overview of the use of multispectral data and the methods typically applied in glacier studies. Besides multispectral techniques based on the visible and near-infrared section and the shortwave infrared section of the spectrum, we also briefly discuss methods for analyzing thermal and radar data, with special emphasis on the mapping of debris-covered glacier ice. A further focus is on spectral change detection techniques applied to multitemporal data, with special attention to a novel image-differencing technique. Then we provide an overview of satellite image-based measurement of glacier flow. Finally, we offer a suggestion for a new combination of glacier observations to be made by both multispectral and radar/microwave remote-sensing sensors.