Contribution of Landsat data (MSS) to soil survey: application to the soil of southwestern Sinai (Egypt)

Abstract

The first step of this study consisted of a visual analysis of Landsat images including contrast and colour analyses. This analysis helped us to locate four subimages (256 × 256 pixels). The processing of Landsat digital data consisted of several parts: (a) selection of the optimal channels for a multispectral classification of Landsat digital data: (b) determination of the thresholds, by different methods (frequency histograms, radiometric transects and radiometric characterization of the zones); (c) multispectral classification of digital data represented by a computer-assisted multicoloured thematic map; (d) drawing of a remotely sensed map of the soil surface. The computer map was used as a basis for mapping the soil surface conditions of south-western Sinai (Egypt).