Anak Krakatau Volcano Explosion as seen in SAR

The following two images (and animation) shows the processed synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data acquired before and after the explosion of the Anak Krakatau volcano. The two SAR data were acquired on two different satellite passes (ascending and descending respectively).

Following the explosion a landslide into the ocean of part of the volcano and the island led to a tsunami (concentric waves around the island can be seen in the after image). The two images are followed by an animation and a video.

InSight mission to Mars Lands Nov. 26

After a successful launch in May 5, 2018 the Insight mission sent to Mars to explore Mars’ interior structure is planned to land on November 26, 2018. The interesting part is the mission landing will be monitored by two cube satellites that were launched with Insight and have been traveling on their own since the launch as show in the launch video below. The landing can be watched live on Nov. 26, 2018.

Bible on Radar/SAR/Microwave Remote Sensing

Considered as the bible on microwave, radar/SAR remote sensing I had to have a copy of this compendium written by pioneers in the field. One of the images puts the 1000 page book to scale.

How Groundwater Extraction & Replenishing Causes Surface Deformation & Subsidence

Researchers at Caltech made the animations below which show the seasonal deformation and subsidence of Earth’s surface, respectively, as a result of groundwater extraction and refilling. This occurs when soil and earth layers are compacted and undergo subsidence due to the decrease of upward hydrostatic pressure balancing the weight of the layers.

Surface deformation and subsidence of Earth’s surface is measured using Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (ISAR). ISAR is also used for natural hazard assessment. This includes applications to regions of volcanic, tectonic (e.g. faults and mountains), and construction activities.