Effects of spatial and spectral resolution on remote sensing for disaster response

Visible and Near-Infrared (VNIR) Multispectral and hyperspectral data are compared for their potential to assist with disaster response and recovery via detailed mapping of the distribution of specific surface materials. Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) data at two spatial resolutions are used to assess the effects of spatial resolution on material mapping capabilities. AVIRIS data are also compared to WorldView-2 (WV-2) 8-band multispectral data with similar spatial resolution to determine the effects of spectral resolution. Initial results illustrate that for urban mapping (buildings, roads, other infrastructure), that high spatial resolution is more critical than high spectral resolution. Decreasing spatial or spectral resolution, however, each increases mapping error.