Fusion of heterogeneous geosensing observations for enhanced site characterization

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Site investigation is an essential element to numerous disciplines including surveying, geological, civil, environmental, and mining engineering, as well as archaeology and geophysics. Investment in a rigorous phased site investigation program has been demonstrated to significantly reduce engineering project cost over-runs and future spending during implementation and monitoring phases. A key element in the first phase is site characterization, which involves accurate topographic/morphological information (digital elevation models) and subsurface characterization (lithological/hydrological). These are critical parameters for estimating the type, location, and quantity of intrusive in situ data collection campaigns. The overall objective of this research program is to transform site characterization capabilities for surface and subsurface models at various spatial (macro, meso, micro) and temporal scales (episodic to several annum) via the fusion of state-of-the-art geosensing innovations. Geosensing refers to a technology-driven approach for surveying and mapping from satellite, airborne and terrestrial platforms and includes, but is not limited to, light detection and ranging (LiDAR), Global Navigation Satellite Systems, synthetic aperture radar, optical and hyperspectral imaging and space geodesy. Geodesy is often referred to as the invisible infrastructure because its fundamental principles are at work underlying a variety of observational networks providing a consistent framework for data integration over time and space for diverse disciplines. This research program seeks to challenge the status-quo by discovering opportunities for the innovative fusion of multi-platform, multi-scale observations using geodetic estimation theory and stochastic principles; examples include, (i) augmenting comprehension of geological relationships by integrating 3D laser scanned hand samples within a geospatial information system environment, (ii) mapping surface water via the fusion of synthetic aperture radar, optical imagery and airborne LiDAR, (iii) assessing uncertainty models for satellite gravity observations in a modernized height system and (iv) integrating unmanned vehicle payload solutions into site characterization. HQP will gain advanced skills to excel in a world that demands a high-level of geospatial intelligence for applications in infrastructure, resource and mineral exploration, hazard assessment and environmental monitoring, to name a few. This research program will ensure that Canada remains at the forefront of geomatics engineering by providing innovative, technically sound and high-level uncertainty information for fused solutions leading to rigorous site characterizations, which will improve our policies as we move towards sustainable developments and transition from the information age to the knowledge age in the future.