Permanent scatterer radar interferometry as an effective structure deformation monitoring tool over undermined areas

This paper discusses the potential of using advanced satellite remote sensing techniques such as radar interferometry for millimeter-accuracy structural health monitoring over abandoned mines. Images covering the broader Springfield, IL, USA area were used to determine the potential of radar interferometry products from several satellite missions (e.g., Sentinel-1) by employing diverse processing techniques. The methodology and results for permanent scatterer interferometric synthetic aperture radar (PS-InSAR) solutions is presented in detail. The vertical movements calculated using PS-InSAR are validated using high precision in-situ surveying measurements. The practical limitations and considerations for utilizing PS-InSAR as an accurate and cost-effective operational procedure for the subsidence insurance industry are presented.