Yves Bühler

Title: Automated detection and mapping of snow avalanche deposits

This research is focused on the automated detection and mapping of snow avalanche deposits from airborne multispectral scanner data. Information about the location and extent of recent avalanche events is important for avalanche forecasting, safety assessments for roads and ski resorts, verification of warning products as well as for hazard mapping and avalanche model calibration/validation. The spectral-, directional- and textural characteristics of avalanche deposits and undisturbed snow cover are evaluated to build up a avalanche detection processing chain. The developed methodology is tested using ADS40 data over a test site near Davos, Switzerland.

Daniel Odermatt

Title: Operational Algorithms for the retrieval of limnological parameters from hyperspectral remote sensing data

This research is focused on the development of standard generic products for the ESA/Prodex sponsored APEX airborne pushbroom imaging spectrometer. The potential of APEX will be evaluated with regard to limnological issues, (such as mapping of algae blooms, water constituents, submerged macrophytes or ground cover, bathymetry, coral reef monitoring, etc), for both inland and optically complex coastal waters. Where the characteristics of APEX data promise a scientific benefit to the solving of ongoing problems, specific operational algorithms are created and enhanced, also including the coupled retrieval of aerosol properties.

Prof. Klaus Itten (head of committee, University of Zurich, Switzerland)
Dr. Jens Nieke (University of Zurich)
Dr. Mathias Kneubühler (University of Zurich)

Francesco Dell'Enrice

Title: Calibration and Artifacts of hyperspectral sensors

Hyperspectral sensors suffer a number of artifacts which affect the quality of the data. Home-based calibration, in-flight calibration along with data processing could help in minimizing these issues. This research will investigate the main artifacts in hyperspectral sensors, both pushbroom and whiskbroom scanners, and will provide, whether it is possible, data algorithms and calibration procedures in order to correct for them. The instruments used in these analysis are IDL, MATLAB and optics simulation software.

Prof. Klaus Itten (head of committee, University of Zurich, Switzerland)
Dr. Jens Nieke (University of Zurich)
Dr. Mathias Kneubühler (University of Zurich)

Andreas Hüni

Title: Spectral Albedo Generation for APEX based on a Spectral Database

This research is investigating the generation of spectral albedo products in the context of (a) the APEX processing and archiving system (PAF), (b) a spectral database (SPECCHIO) and (c) empirical BRDF information extracted from dual-view FIGOS (Field Goniometer System) measurements. Spectral albedo products are independent of sensor and illumination geometries, thus facilitating the generation of higher level products (e.g. landcover classification, vegetation parameters) with increased accuracy.
Focus is put on operational, generic approaches to the sub-problems of (a) hyperspectral processing systems, (b) hyperspectral databases and according user interfaces and (c) BRDF retrieval.

Prof. Klaus Itten (head of committee, University of Zurich, Switzerland)
Dr. Jens Nieke (University of Zurich)
Dr. Mathias Kneubühler (University of Zurich)

Petra D'Odorico

Title: Calibration and Validation of hyperspectral data and instruments

Throughout the processing chain that transforms raw sensor data into highly specialized products, calibration and validation methods are fundamental in verifying whether the instrument meets essential measurement requirements. Measurement requirements can be viewed in terms of spectral, radiometric and spatial characteristics of the acquiring instrument. This research investigates methods for the calibration and validation of hyperspectral sensor in operational settings. Particular focus lies on onboard and vicarious calibration procedures for the ESA/Prodex sponsored APEX airborne hyperspectral sensor.

Prof. Klaus Itten (head of committee, University of Zurich, Switzerland)
Dr. Mathias Kneubühler (University of Zurich)

Jörg Weyermann

Title: BRDF correction of hyperspectral imagery

Directional effects play an important role in hyperspectral image information extraction, since on the one hand they may support the understanding of surface properties, on the other hand they may prevent an accurate image classification. Furthermore, a proper correction is essential in order to perform mosaicking of hyperspectral images.
This research is focused on the correction of directional effects occurring in hyperspectral imagery. A number of methods (empirical, semi-empirical and physical based) is being investigated and evaluated with respect to their effectiveness, applicability, performance and usability in operational environments. Existing methods are to be refined and enhanced. The most promising algorithms are planned to be implemented into the APEX processing chain.

Prof. Klaus Itten (head of committee, University of Zurich, Switzerland)
Dr. Mathias Kneubühler (University of Zurich)