Abstract
Abstract The application of conventional SAR Interferometry (InSAR) together with the two techniques of subcentimeter accuracy, the Stacking and the Permanent Scatterers (PS) Interferometry, were used to study the ground deformation in the broader area of Athens for the period 1992 to 2002. Using the Stacking interferometric method, 55 ERS-1&2 SAR scenes, between 1992 and 2002, were acquired producing 264 differential interferograms. Among these only 60 were finally selected as fulfilling certain criteria. The co-seismic deformation associated with the Athens Earthquake (Mw = 5.9, September 7, 1999) was excluded from the analytical procedure in an attempt to present results of only aseismic character. In total ground subsidence results of about 12 mm in the southern suburbs of Athens, but higher value of about 40 mm in the northern ones for the period 1992–2002. Based on the PS technique, a precise average annual deformation rate-map was generated for the period 1992–1999, ending just before the Athens earthquake event. Both circular and elongated-shape areas of subsidence are recognizable especially in the northern part of the Athens Basin (3–4 mm/yr), as well as at its southern part (1–3 mm/yr). In addition, a rate of 2–3 mm/yr is also yielded for some part of the Athens city center. Subsidence rates of 1–2 mm/yr are measured at the western part of the basin over an area of old mining activities, and around the newly built Syntagma Metro Station. The correlation of the observed deformation patterns with respect to the spatial distribution of water pumping, older mining activities, metro line tunneling and other local geological parameters is examined and discussed.
Highlights
The results of ground displacement measurements, especially in urban areas, are outlined in this study based on advanced space application techniques
The purpose of this paper is to present the results of ground deformation for the urban area in the Athens Basin, using the methods of Stacked interferometry and Permanent Scatterers (PS) interferometry
Conclusions Conventional InSAR and PS analysis was possible to be carried out on a set of ESA-ERS satellite images acquired over the broader area of Athens
Summary
The results of ground displacement measurements, especially in urban areas, are outlined in this study based on advanced space application techniques. The ground subsidence being produced by many causes (e.g. subtraction of earth material by mining or tunneling, fluid pumping such as groundwater, oil, gas etc.) does not pose the type of hazards associated with sudden and catastrophic natural events like earthquakes. In urban areas, high vulnerability to the effects of subsidence is exhibited. Especially in those that are highly populated like the broader region of Athens, important projects and structures are concentrated (e.g. bridges, highways, underground life-lines pipes, metro), increasing the exposure to the hazard. Measuring subsidence using ground-based techniques like levelling and geodetic surveys is not a new concept. New techniques were developed to measure sub-
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