Urban Environment
Weather-independent building detection
My research aims to improve the way we create digital maps of cities using advanced radar technology. These maps, known as Digital Elevation Models (DEMs), help us understand the height and shape of buildings and other structures. However, creating accurate maps is challenging due to ‘layovers,’ which are areas where the radar signals get mixed up, making it hard to identify and measure buildings properly. In my studies, new methods have been developed to tackle these challenges and improve the map's accuracy. The first method focuses on better identifying and separating the mixed-up radar signals from buildings, making the maps clearer and easier to understand. The second method enhances the existing mapping process by using a more adaptable approach to reduce errors and inaccuracies in measuring the height of buildings. These works are a significant step forward in developing a trustworthy mapping system that can operate efficiently, regardless of weather conditions, providing clearer and more detailed images of urban areas.
Reference: Rossi et al., “High-Resolution InSAR Building Layovers Detection and Exploitation”, IEEE Transaction on Geoscience and Remote Sensing, 2015.
Structure inspections for safeguard activities
I led a study about the use of satellite images (SAR) to gather valuable information about the earth’s surface, like the height of buildings or activities on roads. These images help in monitoring and safeguarding important areas by providing detailed 3D models and can detect changes over time. The significance of this study is its contribution to practical monitoring and safeguarding methods. By improving and using cost-effective techniques, the study helps in providing tools for organizations like the IAEA to analyse and monitor relevant sites better. It aims to improve the quality and efficiency of these tools in the future, exploring new data sources like spaceborne videos for better 3D models and monitoring.
Reference: D’Angelo et al., “High Resolution 3D Earth Observation Data Analysis for Safeguards Activities”, Symposium on International Safeguards, 2014.
