Lithological discrimination using ASTER and Hyperion data in Salem District, Tamil Nadu

Abstract

— Lithological mapping is a crucial factor in identifying and mapping the spatial distribution of minerals. It aids in accurately defining the most promising primary prospects for local exploration. The differentiation of rock units across a wider region is likely to be attributed to remotely sensed satellite data. Therefore, the research focuses on utilizing remote sensing methods to create a geological map for a specific area in Salem district, Tamil Nadu, by employing HYPERION and ASTER satellite images. Various techniques, such as Band Ratio (BR), Spectral Angle Mapper (SAM), Minimum Noise Fraction (MNF), Mixture Tuned Mapped Filtering (MTMF), Spectral Feature Fitting (SFF), and Support Vector Machines (SVMs), are utilized to classify lithological units, which are crucial for data analysis. The outcomes of these methods will be compared to field-mapped geological boundaries to assess accuracy. In the final phase, a highly precise geological map is produced by combining remote sensing data with on-site investigations. The application of these approaches holds significant potential for enhancing geological mapping and mineral exploration in hard-to-reach areas.