Hyperspectral imaging is a technology that fuses spectroscopy and imaging, generating rich data sets that can allow for classification of imagery based on spectral as well as spatial features. When combined with high accuracy GPS and LiDAR, and integrated onto a small UAV, it becomes possible to create geolocated imagery in 3D where each point is classified according to some spectral algorithm.
This talk will include an overview of push broom hyperspectral imaging, the process of calibrating and geolocating the collected data, and fusion of classified geolocated hyperspectral images with LiDAR point clouds. Examples will be shown of research projects in mine waste remediation using short wave infrared imaging and LiDAR, and of coral reef restoration, using visible near-infrared imaging from a tripod as well as from a UAV launched from a small boat.
The talk will conclude with some analysis of the coral reef project in Geographical Information Systems software, where multiple layers of data can be accurately co-located to look for correlations between data from different sources.