Use of IRS-1C and Its Follow-On Missions for Geological Applications: A Review

Abstract

Satellite-based remote sensing is being used by geologists for the last five decades for conducting geological surveys and applications. The launch of Indian Remote Sensing Satellite (IRS)-1C in December 1995 opened new opportunities to study and characterise Earth’s surface materials, landforms and surface as well as subsurface processes. The availability of panchromatic (PAN) camera and Wide Field Sensor (WiFS) in addition to multispectral Linear Imaging Self-Scanning sensor-III (LISS-III) made the IRS-1C unique among its contemporary satellites. While wide coverage provided by the WiFS images could be used for studying regional features like geological and geomorphic provinces and mega lineaments/fractures, the PAN-sharpened LISS-III images facilitated improved interpretability and made large-scale (up to 1:10,000) mapping possible. In this article, we review the geological applications of the IRS-1C and its follow-on missions carrying similar sensors, with an aim to present the status of the achievements made with this unique mission. From the basic geological and geomorphological mapping to different applied geological investigations in the fields of hydrogeology, mineral and hydrocarbon exploration, geoengineering surveys, geoenvironmental appraisal of engineering, mining and infrastructural projects, and geological hazards are covered in this review. While reviewing different applications, we highlight major projects executed, new initiatives undertaken, and scientific findings through the use of IRS-1C data and its successor missions. We also provide some recommendations on the future requirements of remote sensing systems and processes from the geological perspective.