Satellite data potential for landslide studies in tropical regions.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to show that satellite data applicability for landslides studies is given concentration in tropical regions, which have two limitations; regular cloud cover and thick vegetation. Design/methodology/approach – Landslide studies have three categories: mapping, zonation, and monitoring. High spatial resolution images are convenient for mapping. Since the slope and slope materials are the dominant parameters for slide potential, a high resolution DEM produced from the above data with classification of multispectral data will be vital for zonation. Weather-free and penetration are advantages that make radar images essential for monitoring. Findings – A composition of satellite data with support of aerial photography, with its high spatial resolution, will give an excellent spatial database for these studies. Originality/value – Satellite remote sensing data are applicable for landslides studies in non-accessible mountainous tropical regions