Aerial Photographic Interpretation
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The principal of Terra Cognita has been interpreting aerial photographic and satellite imagery for land use mapping, opportunities and constraints mapping, natural hazard analysis and engineering geomorphology since 1977. He has been involved in over 75 engineering development projects. Such work has also extended to linking geographical information systems (GIS) with environmental and simulation modelling of which he is a leading exponent.

floodplain development

digital elevation model

Aerial photography and high resolution satellite imagery are becoming increasingly commonplace. The vertical view of a landscape afforded by the imagery allow a rapid and cost-effective means of mapping and updating of spatial data. They can be used to map:
TC bullet land use and monitor land use change
TC bullet landform type and characteristics
TC bullet solid geology and structure
TC bullet distribution and nature of surficial materials
TC bullet surface and near surface processes including drainage, soil erosion, slope instability and susceptibility to flooding
TC bullet vegetation, habitats and scenic quality

mapping   eroding landscape

These types of analyses of terrain from Aerial Photographic Interpretation (A.P.I.) provide the necessary information to:
TC bullet keep land use directories up-to-date for statutory requirements and planning;
TC bullet identify suitable sites for locating facilities and general engineering development;
TC bullet assess hazards, problems and constraints posed by terrain and to suggest solutions;
TC bullet evaluate the overall viability of a project;
TC bullet identify and plan the nature and extent of the further detailed ground studies required for a project.


ground movement   old landslide - proposed road

Whilst the latest imagery should be used for land use mapping, older archive imagery can equally be used for mapping the natural physical features of a landscape. When a time series of imagery is available useful mapping of land use and landscape change can take place. Data can be prepared for direct input and analysis by GIS.

old development

new town

Accurate information from A.P.I. to guide planners, engineers and other professionals derived in an early assessment of landscape conditions, is fundamental to the success of
TC bullet regional and local planning studies
TC bullet construction of transportation routes including roads, railways, pipelines and transmission lines
TC bullet reservoirs and drainage basin management
TC bullet urban, industrial, agricultural and recreational development
TC bullet solid waste disposal

geomorphological map


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