Simple and effective cloud- and shadow-detection algorithms for Landsat and Worldview images

Abstract

Many conventional cloud- and shadow-detection algorithms require meta-data such as sun angle and date of image collection. Moreover, detection results can vary a lot in actual images. We present simple and effective algorithms that do not require meta-data for detecting clouds and shadows in Landsat and Worldview images. Comparison with existing state-of-the-art algorithms, including a deep learning-based algorithm as well as a commercial algorithm, using actual satellite images, shows that the simple algorithms have comparable or even better performance than existing algorithms.