Multitemporal and multisensor signatures evaluation for lithologic classification

Focuses on the evaluation of the potentiality of remote sensing exploitation for geological applications in the Mediterranean area. The test site of the "Fossa Bradanica" (South of Italy) has been considered. Different data sets have been considered: optical multitemporal, microwave multitemporal and combined optical and microwave. On the basis of a maximum likelihood rule an analysis of the spectral signatures extracted from lithologic classes obtained by cartographic maps and ground truth has been performed, either on LANDSAT TM data or ERS-1 data. In order to reduce the vegetation influence in lithological signature evaluation vegetation mask is used. Then the best data combination and the best season of acquisition for the minimization of the confusion are defined. The obtained results are shown.