The use of aerial photographs and remote sensing techniques in research on fossil periglacial features
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26485/BP/1982/29/9Keywords:
photoiterpretation, satellite imagery, periglacial forms, environmental factorsAbstract
In response to the need for better utilization of remote sensing techniques in the study of fossil periglacial landforms, an international survey was conducted in 1975 among institutions and researchers specializing in periglacial geomorphology. Analysis of 37 responses indicated that although aerial photographs – mainly vertical images at scales of 1:10,000 to 1:50,000 – are widely used for identifying active periglacial forms, their potential in the study of fossil forms remains underutilized. The identified features include both macrotopographic (e.g., cryoplanation terraces, former thermokarst lakes) and microtopographic forms (e.g., polygonal networks), as well as vegetation indicators revealing the presence of subsurface structures. Despite limitations such as low resolution and the lack of seasonal imagery, remote sensing techniques – including colour and infrared photography – have shown potential in detecting subtle traces of past periglacial processes. The study recommends a greater use of aerial photographs and further research into the application of advanced remote imaging methods, such as satellite multispectral imaging and thermal sensing, in documenting fossil periglacial landscapes.
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