What Are The Optimal Band Selection And Sensor Configuration Parameters For A Geostationary Thermal Infrared Imaging Satellite To Accurately Detect And Discriminate Between Different Types Of Wildfires, Such As Peat Fires And Wildfires In Vegetation With Varying Moisture Content, Over Tropical Regions During Nighttime Hours?
Optimal Band Selection and Sensor Configuration for Geostationary Thermal Infrared Imaging Satellite
To detect and discriminate between peat fires and wildfires in vegetation during nighttime in tropical regions, the following configuration is recommended:
Band Selection
- 3-5 µm (Mid-Wave Infrared): Essential for detecting high-temperature events, penetrating smoke and haze, and reducing atmospheric moisture interference.
- 8-12 µm (Long-Wave Infrared): Useful for assessing cooler surfaces, fire spread, and environmental context.
- 1.5-2.5 µm (Short-Wave Infrared): Helps identify hotter spots within fires, less affected by atmospheric issues.
Sensor Configuration
- Spatial Resolution: Aim for 1 km to balance fire detection and discrimination needs, considering geostationary limitations.
- Temporal Resolution: Revisit every 15-30 minutes for monitoring fire progression and timely detection.
- Sensitivity: Low Noise Equivalent Differential Temperature (NEDT) of 0.2-0.3 K and high Minimum Detectable Temperature Difference (MDTD) for detecting low-intensity fires.
- On-Board Processing: Include data compression and initial analysis for efficient data handling and real-time alerts.
Algorithm and Processing
- Multi-Band Processing: Utilize temperature differences and fire radiative power for accurate detection.
- Machine Learning: Train models to distinguish fire types based on thermal signatures.
- Atmospheric Correction: Implement algorithms to mitigate water vapor and aerosol interference.
Validation and Testing
- Ground Truth Data: Use field experiments to calibrate sensors and algorithms, ensuring accuracy through real-world data comparison.
Considerations
- Fire Characteristics: Tailor band selection to specific thermal emissions of peat vs. vegetation fires.
- Observation Angle: Account for satellite position to maintain consistent measurements.
This configuration balances technical capabilities with operational needs, providing effective fire detection and discrimination in tropical regions.