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Eng. Rabeea Suleiman Al-Aghbari
(SO1) Geographic Information Services
National Survey Authority
Oman
AbstractThe National Survey Authority (NSA) has a full range of map production capabilities. It is the sole authority responsible for the production and supply of Geospatial Data of the Sultanate of Oman, hence it has the capacity to provide advises on all matters regarding topographic mapping of the Sultanate and will endeavor to assist where possible in the provision of maps, data, information services and expertise. NSA is fully committed to provide these services within the bounds of current policy and within the limits of the resources available to it. It is also assembling and maintaining the Sultanate's geographic archives. What steps does the NSA take to support the NSDI?.
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Eng. Fuad Al Shannaq
Subject Matter Expert
Directorate General of National Spatial Data Infrastructure
NCSI
Oman
Bio Eng. Fuad Al Shannaq is Subject Matter Expert, Directorate General of National Spatial Data Infrastructure at the National Centre for Statistics and Information, Oman. Eng. Fuad has more than 25 years of working experience in the field of mapping and geospatial services. He has 10 years of working experience In Jordan and 4 years of working experience in UAE as Geospatial data expert In addition, he has about 15 years of working experience as GIS consultant and NSDI expert in Oman.
Abstract
SDI for good Governance
SDI is defined as an institutional arrangement for building an effective framework to enabling the coordinated, sharing and use and re-use of the Geospatial Information through standardized Geospatial Environment, given the nature of SDI which cover the collaborative and cooperation of large number of stakeholders, the good governance, which deals with collective decision-making is certainly a key success for any SDI where most activities need to be carried out by typically large number and diversity of stakeholders linked through multiple overlapping, interacting networks and in collaborative approaches to make the geospatial data available and accessible in consistent and standardized manner. Today, most of government and public authorities have to restructure their organization and align their strategy to become more open and accountable and transparent in term of managing their resources, projects and deliver better services, such objectives can be accomplished using an information based decisions where the geospatial represent a very important factor that certainly will support the good governance process. The presentation will highlight the role of SDI to support the good governance.
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Carsten Rönsdorf
Head of Advisory Services
Ordnance Survey International
United Arab Emirates
Bio
Carsten Rönsdorf is Head of Advisory Services for Ordnance Survey International, a subsidiary of Britain’s National Mapping Agency, and provides advice to government agencies across the Middle East. He is developing the product portfolio for smart cities, standard and 3D. Carsten has been at Ordnance Survey for more than 12 years and was previously responsible for developing and managing Ordnance Survey's core data asset, the National Geographic Database, as well as managing the product engineering group. Having been involved in geospatial 3D and data integration since 1996, he has been leeding the standardisation of the Open Geospatial Consortium’s CityGML standard since 2007.
Abstract
Exploit your geodata to enable smart cities and countries
The availability of high quality geographic data enables cities, regions and countries to easily integrate information and to provide new and improved services to citizen. The presentation introduces the concept of smart cities and how geographic data and technology can be used to provide services, optimise mobility and energy use and increase the competitiveness of a city, region or country on a global level. A number of examples are given on how the widespread use of authoritative geospatial data amongst government agencies has optimised processes and collaboration and how an ecosystem for exploitation by private sector companies can be created.
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Oliver Boast
Regional Manager
Network Mapping
UK
Abstract
RouteHex – An Intelligent and Objective system
RouteHex is an intelligent and objective method for the optimal routing of infrastructure that minimises impacts, accurately estimates quantities, reduces costs and enables decisions to stand up to scrutiny. It uses a combination of GIS layers, imagery, LiDAR and a hexgrid – an intelligent hexagonal grid – to help determine the optimal placement of linear infrastructure based on weighted factors. Our innovative approach works by iteratively narrowing down route options and optimising alignment in three stages. The appropriate resolution of geospatial data, from satellite through to aerial LiDAR, is used to match each of these three stages, from the macro to the micro scale.
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Ibrahim Al Dabbas
Business Analyst, Directorate General of National Spatial Data Infrastructure
NCSI
Oman
Abstract
NCSI's Geo-Enable Community Service Mobile Apps
Geospatial industry is growing like never before. Today, geospatial information, and spatial data infrastructure (SDI) play critical roles in allowing many governments, private business entities to support their businesses. The key objective here “together we create geo-information network”. NCSI has initiated an initiative of providing geo-enabled Community Service Mobile Apps for added new dimensions and potential to use of GIS in community. The Community Service will enable the free movement of interoperable data by standardizing geo-information from stakeholders. It will deliver cost savings by maximizing the reuse of public data. The overall aim of this service is to explore the potential and constraints for the application of GIS technology in community, the specific objectives were to: Facilitate and increase utilization of GIS in daily life; Provide the most accurate, updated Geo-Spatial information to the community; Support the community to find various service locations, attractions, navigation routing facilities etc.
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Dr. Oualid (Walid) Ben Ali
GIS Center Founder and Director
University of Sharjah
UAE
Abstract
GeoSpatial technology, GeoSmart cities and Spatial Big Data
Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) revolutionize the ways different urban actors communicate and interact. GeoSpatial technology and Geographic information systems are of key importance too for the deployment and implementation of ICTs in the Smart City, because of the central role they may play as geo-based decision-making support tools. Indeed, they give quick access to different layers of geo-information that may be combined and integrated to facilitate analysis of a situation and make the best decisions.
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Ammar Almasri
Sr. Account Executive
HERE
UAE
Abstract
HERE – Technology Partner for Integrated Solutions
HERE, a Nokia company, is a leader in navigation, mapping and location experiences. We combine highly accurate and fresh maps with cloud technology to enable rich, real-time location experiences in a broad range of connected devices. This presentation will highlight how 30 years of experience in collection, processing and distribution of location data, helps to manage the demands of complex infrastructures. Our comprehensive set of enterprise-specific content combined with the world’s first location cloud platform power a wide range of geospatial, fleet, government and logistics applications. Discover how HERE can help your business run smarter, faster and more efficiently.
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Bibhudatta Swain
Geomatics Analyst
National Survey Authority
Oman
Abstract
SDI: Concept, need and implementation for developing countries
We live in an age of information & Technology and geographic information is one of the most critical elements underpinning decision making for many disciplines. In this regard many of the things that different organisation want to achieve together can only be achieved if good, consistent spatial data is available and readily accessible. This is especially important when planning for the future. Geographic data is still expensive and time consuming to produce. In recent years nations have made unprecedented investments in both information and the means to assemble, store, process, analysis and disseminate it, which leads to the introduction of Geographical Information System (GIS). Keeping in mind for the future need and importance of the use of GIS, government of different nations and organisations within each nation started acquiring GIS data required to meet their fundamental needs according to their own standards, specifications and priorities. But this narrow focus leads to inefficiency and duplication of effort. To get rid of these situations, governments of different nations and organisation within each nation should reach an agreement on what fundamental datasets are required to meet their common interest, to what standards it should be collected and maintained and what priorities should be given for its collection which leads to the development of Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI).
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Suad Ali Al-Jardani
NCSI
Oman
Abstract
Integrating Geospatial and Statistical Information
GIS can be used in almost all stages of the statistical work. GIS adds a great deal to the statistical work and has many advantages, which helps in promoting the development, standardization, dissemination and sharing of data at national, sub regional, and regional levels through appropriate information networks and infrastructures. Also GIS strengthens the effective use of spatial information technologies for producing and disseminating statistics. GIS supports the development and management of national statistical information systems in quality and integrity of social and economic development. Publishing statistical data using statistical maps has many advantages. It makes the statistical data easy to understand, analyze and compare. Further, the integration of Geospatial and Statistics Information will assist the policy makers in the following way: Assist in formulating policies and strategies on adopting modern spatial information technologies in National Statistics Offices; Sensitize policy makers on the role and uses of GIS in policy formulation and decision making.
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Youssef O. Kaddoura
Senior Business Analyst
GeoLinks
UAE
Bio
Youssef O. Kaddoura has over 14 years experience in developing and using information systems, specialising in location-based services (indoor/outdoor). He is holding the position of Senior Business Analyst in GeoLinks (UAE – Abu Dhabi). His undergraduate degree was in Computer Science, he also holds an M.Sc in Computer Science from Lebanese American University (Lebanon-Beirut) and Masters of Computer Science and Information Engineering from University of Florida (USA). GeoLinks specialises in providing 3D Visualization and Analysis Solutions, Strategic Planning, Road Mapping and Capacity Building for different scale of Geospatial Programs towards supporting local and regional organisations. His recent assignments include managing the development of data visualization tool for local authority through an executive user-friendly dashboard. His work with geospatial technology began upon working on his masters’ thesis in 2001 titled “GISMO: A Geographical Information System for a Municipality Office”, later through being a lecturer for introductory GIS courses at the University of Florida, and participated in several geospatial/geomatics published research in the field of 3D modelling by LiDAR.
Abstract
Virtual reality technology combined with GIS offers the best perfect tool to support future developments in terms of planning, decision-making, monitoring and promoting. Thus, 3D real time technology eases the understanding of future projects by the greatest number through a high quality visualization and high data accuracy. The Vectuel’s technology offers you the opportunity to put in the hands of VIP and decision-makers as well as investors and citizen valuable information (GIS, architecture, communication) in a virtual environment simulation in high definition. The intuitive and interactive interface enables an easy navigation accessible by everyone into the future developments. Innovation-driven, your organization will strongly benefit from this advanced and proven digital solution 100% customized to your projects.
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Nagendran
Assistant Manager
Bahwan Projects & Telecoms LLC
Oman
Abstract
Oman National CORS Network
During the last decade, the use of GNSS in Europe has widely increased and that was linked to the deployments of Continuous Operating Reference Stations (CORS). The National Surveying Authority has decided the deployment of a nationwide GNSS reference network (ONCN), consisting of a set of GNSS Reference Stations distributed throughout the Sultanate of Oman and the establishment of positioning services to assist in the precise positioning over the entire country. The principal objectives of ONCN are: Provide the user community with access to the ONCN by means of data distribution for both post-processing and in real time. Various Government Ministries, Authorities and Private sectors will gain benefit through the establishment of ONCN Network. Geospatial data sharing between users shall be much possible due to homogeneous coordinate system used across the country.
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Somnath Marthi
VP (Ops), IIC Technologies
India
Abstract
The Oman National GEOID Model Project – Field Implementation
The increasing accuracy of elevation obtained from GPS positioning has made it an efficient and cost effective alternative approach to standard levelling along long routes. The missing link between the two approaches is to determine the difference in datum between standard elevation relative to Mean Sea Level defining the Geoid and the elevation relative to GPS satellite on an ellipsoid orbit. The use of geophysical (gravity) survey allows us to compute this difference in datum (geoid vs. ellipsoid) by modelling the shape of the earth over any given area (topography). The National Survey Authority has chosen this approach to determine the Oman National Geoid Model. This abstract will present the field implementation for this project that includes ground gravity measurement in mountainous areas, airborne gravity survey nationwide and standard levelling along specific routes to complete the existing network. The survey equipment and survey parameters will be discussed and an update on the status of the project will be presented.
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Ahmed Naji
Head of Advisory Services
Geospatial Database Administrator
Directorate General of National Spatial Data Infrastructure
NCSI
Abstract
NCSI's GeoPlatform and eGOV Locator
NCSI GeoPlatform was developed to providing shared and trusted geospatial data, services, for use by stakeholders to meet their mission needs. Through the GeoPlatform, users have access to: A national geospatial database to deliver trusted, nationally consistent geospatial data; Authoritative data to support informed decision making; A shared infrastructure to host data and applications; A national focal point where governmental, academic and public data can be visualized together to inform and address national concerns. NSDI as the national entity mandated to establish and manage the Oman National Spatial data Infrastructure (ONSDI) has embodied the principles and spirit of the open geospatial data concept , emphasizing government-to-government (G2G) communication at the first stage and moving towards government-to-business ( G2B ) and government–to–Citizen (G2C) in coming stages ,assuring the good governance accountability, and transparency. The GeoPlatform supports open formats, data standards, and common core and extensible metadata. NSDI is aiming from developing the GeoPlatform To Increase the use and reuse of resources facilitated by the GeoPlatform and reduce costs, resulting maximizing the Return of Investment (ROI), and stimulate government participation and partnership. The presentation will expose to the audience the different capabilities offered by the GeoPlatform.
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Yousuf Al Zadjali
Project Coordinator
Directorate General of National Spatial Data Infrastructure
NCSI
Abstract
Nationwide Orthophoto and Mapping
Mapping projects are collaborative efforts by organizations to satisfy common interests,NCSI is working closely with National Survey Authority (NSA) as strategic partner to the implement the various mapping projects needed to produce and satisfy the short and long terms of ONSDI community requirements from the geospatial data. NSDI is considering the Geospatial data production/Updating program is one of the key success of the ONSDI. NCSI has the experience to cooperate and coordinate to deliver a Nation Wide Orthophoto Project (NWP) covering the whole Sultanate with (50 cm) Ortho-rectified Aerial Photos and with (20cm) for (8) major towns. This important collaboration is resulting in delivering an accurate and trusted base mapping dataset that will put into sharing with ONSDI stakeholders for supporting them in building their own business application and getting benefits from the government investment in the product. The presentation will show the different deliverables from this project and the management aspect to lead it for success.
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Abdullah Al Balushi
General Manager
Rolta Middle East
Oman
Abstract
The Production of 1:50,000 and 1:100,000 Scale Topographic Maps of the Sultanate of Oman
The Project consists of production of 1:50,000 and 1:100,000 scale Topographic maps of the Sultanate of Oman. The Ministry Of Defense (MOD) being desirous of procuring the works for the production of 496 sheets Bilingual at 1:50,000 scale and 268 sheets 1:100,000 scale Arabic and English Topographic Maps of the Sultanate of Oman. The GoeData Base also created seamlessly for the entire country as per NSA 1:50K and 1:100K data model. This project covers the entire territory of the Sultanate of Oman this amounts to approximately 309,000 Km2. The objectives of this project for NSA to: Develop high-accuracy, high-quality photogrammetric and topographic land base at 1:50,000 scale for approximately 300,000 square kilometers covering the project area. This will be made up of all the features listed in the RFP. We would utilize all of the inputs provided by the NSA; Generate a seamless topographic digital map at the scale of 1:50,000 consisting 3D Geodatabase and Oracle Spatial formats; Generate Cartographic products through Map Finishing. These products will consist of correct Post Script Files, Geotiff, and color separates ready for printing; Work very closely with the NSA team members to transfer the knowledge and deliver a training program. Rolta will develop and administer an educational and informative photogrammetric, GIS and Map Finishing training program; Delivery of products ready for immediate incorporation into a GIS, with minimal quality control required by the NSA.
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Dr. Khaled El Nabbout
General Manager
Mena3D GmbH
Germany
Abstract
Advantage of 3D Terrestrial Laser Scan for Power Piping Process
The development of Terrestrial Laser Scan technology recently opened the Surveying for new challenge and great applications. Oil field or to specify more power piping process it was always critical task. In our days Terrestrial laser scan is unique solution for Braun field. Scanner can nowadays capture more than 1 million points per second in resolution up to 1 mm accurate. That is important from one side but from the other side: how should we handle all this data? To bring this huge amount of cloud points into real 3D model is a big challenge. The paper will focus mainly on new technology how to handle huge amount of point cloud and how to module and visualize quintillion point cloud by applying solutions in live demonstration.
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Rami Hazime
Senior Regional Sales Manager
DigitalGlobe
UAE
Abstract
Making the Invisible, Visible - Leveraging DigitalGlobe’s constellation for better environmental decision making and resource management
Over the last decade, significant progress has been made in developing and launching satellites suited for earth observation, with instruments in both the optical/infrared and microwave regions of the spectra. Commercial availability of optical very high spatial resolution spaceborne imagery began more than 10 years ago with the launch of IKONOS and QuickBird, which led to an increasing interest in satellite data for mapping and precise location-based service applications. Since then, a large amount of data has been acquired, including images from newer and more complex platforms such as WorldView-1, WorldView-2, GeoEye-1, and the more recently WorldView-3. Currently, the potential global capacity of very high spatial resolution imaging satellites is greater than 1.8 billion square kilometers per year, which corresponds to more than 12 times the land surface area of the earth. This capacity could potentially increase to more than 2.4 billion square kilometers per year (about 16 times the land surface area of the earth) in the near future. Despite the vast amounts of data collected, commercial imagery providers are finding that imagery plays a foundational part to a customers’ needs. Users in many domains require information or information-related services that are focused, concise, reliable, timely and provided in formats specific to a user’s own activities. The commercial remote sensing industry is on the verge of an information revolution, as new satellites are developed that offer increased resolution, improved accuracies, greater spectral diversity and faster access to imagery and derived information. These trends are further aided by technology improvements in processing speeds, cloud computing, delivery mechanisms, and new information extraction techniques that will make the imagery and derived information more economical and accessible. This presentation will highlight key developments in the satellite derived earth observation industry and showcase advanced capabilities including Satellite Derived Bathymetry, Underwater reef mapping, Habitat Mapping, Rapid 3D Mapping and Locating Mineral Deposits.
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Major (Eng) Mahfoodh Juma Al Araimi
SO2 Production Control and Projects Manager
National Survey Authority
Oman
Abstract
The Use of Geospatial Data in Utilities and the Role of NSA
Recently the use of geospatial data and the related information increased and appeared to use in various services and utilities projects. Understanding of the value of geospatial data among senior decision makers in both governments and businesses has increased significantly. Therefore it is considered as the base for decision making. This presentation will address the importance, and evolution of geospatial data in various utilities and related applications. On the other hand, the National Survey Authority (NSA), of the Sultanate of Oman, is the sole body responsible for the production and distribution of geospatial data in the Sultanate of Oman. Since its inception NSA works to provide geospatial data for different users and associated services. Accordingly, this presentation will address the role of the National Survey Authority in providing of geospatial data.
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Manahil Nasser Hamdan Al Toobi
Sultan Qaboos University
Oman
Abstract
Select The Least Cost Path for A proposed Water Pipeline between (Hay Al Turath Town and Farq Town in Nizwa Wilayate)
The GIS applications play an important role in the decision-making process. The GIS is an essential tool which supports top management in various fields in making fast and considerate decisions. Water field began to utilize geographical information system in several operations in order to support the decision making, analysis and end services of infrastructure. It is an efficient tool in time and money saving, the researchers cut strides in their research for the best place for the pipeline at least cost. This paper elaborates the GIS application in analyzing the least cost function in Nizwa, Dahkiliyah Governorate, where most of the development projects are concentrated, including water network systems. There are many purposes for this project; firstly, to find the easiest way to determine the optimization route for water pipeline. Secondly, to minimize the cost and the time of routing pipeline. Thirdly, to show the efficiency of GIS tools that enhances the activities and improves the services of each organization. Fourthly, to demonstrate and prove that such decisions could be made in-house, saving the cost for hiring external consultation for any project related to PAEW works. The main function applied in this project is the least cost path. The work based on collecting the factors affecting the work and then putting buffer for them and other manipulation. Then make calibration for every variable weight appropriate with the extent of its impact on the proposed water line between the source and destination points. After that, continue the process with the cost path, which is based upon the cost distance. The final result of this project revealed the least cost path utilizing the ArcGIS software which matches approximately the same route that had been conducted by the contracted company for this project.
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Mohammed Al Humimi
Asset Info & GIS Head Section
Rural Areas Electricity Company
Oman
Abstract
GIS Strategic Plan for Utilities
This paper explains how to prepare GIS strategic plan( preparation and implementation) for utilities organizations (Rural areas Electricity Company as case study) to deliver accurate and timely geographical information systems data to support informed decision making by top management, Departments managers, Head sections and staff in an organization. This prepare will be consist of the following points: 1- GIS introductions: GIS benefits for utilities. 2- GIS Statement : Vision, Mission and Objectives. 3- GIS Implementation Methodology. 4- GIS Investment strategy. 5- Cost Estimation, 6- Risk and recommendations.
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Amol Ganesh Deshmukh
Geomatics Specialist
National Survey Authority
Oman
Abstract
The use of GIS & spatial data for optimum route selection for a new pipeline laying project
The economy of Sultanate of Oman is largely governed by oil and gas production, hence the creation of a cost effective and optimum infrastructure for such industries is imperative. GIS is a spatial decision making tool that plays a vital role in choosing an optimum route for a new pipeline. Land use information is essential as it has a direct impact on selecting an optimum and cost effective route for the pipeline. In the initial stages of route selection, most of the basic analysis is done in the office by the GIS specialist using for example: Recent aerial photography/satellite Imagery, elevation data, land-use/land-cover/landowner information, foreign pipelines and other utilities that cross the proposed route, road and water crossings and other environmental information. Once the optimum route is determined, it is surveyed in field before the route layout is finalised. Such effective planning can save money, avoid risk to human and animal life and offer better operation and maintenance of the proposed pipeline. Use of digital elevation data provides terrain information which will help in identifying a slope for the natural flow of liquid in the pipeline. The location of associated pipeline features such as pumping stations, inspection valves can be better planned with the use of geospatial data. The National Survey Authority (NSA) is the authorised provider of Geospatial Information in Oman who can provide accurate and recent maps, orthorectified photos, elevation and vector data. This data is based on the recently established Oman National Geodetic Datum (ONGD14) using high precision Continuously Operating Reference Stations that offer cm level accuracy on the ground. A comparison of geospatial data obtained from other sources has revealed that there is a lot of variation in terms of accuracy, quality, currency etc. It is very important then that when one undertakes any such activity in Oman they use accurate and up-to-date geospatial data such as that available from NSA.
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Divi Venkatramana
GIS Specialist
Worley Parsons
Oman
Abstract A Case study on automatic alignment sheets Through GIS
Pipeline Alignment sheet is a blueprint of the whole pipeline facility; all information in building the pipeline system is contained in these important documents. The alignment sheets provide all needed information in cases of damage, repairs and maintenance. Problems will easily be addressed and it is easier to modify the system as needed. Alignment sheet stores multiple layers of data on a single document. A series of alignment sheets are created, each holding a portion of the routes length. In addition to a conventional 2-D map window, Alignment sheet utilize multiple parallel linear bands, one-dimensional (1-D) routes, to represent events and facilities that occurred or exist along the pipeline. Data in the multiple bands of the alignment sheet are tied together by stationing values. Pipeline Stationing is the basis for the GIS concept of measured routes. Stationing allows multiple data sets to be stored along the pipeline centerline without creating additional geometry. This engineering concept is referred to in GIS as linear referencing. Stationing, or measure values, allows points to be stored along a route with two pieces of information, the route name, the stationing value. Sheet cutter is an Arc Map extension from New Century Software that creates customizable map sheets; it uses linear referencing to retrieve data about a route or centerline. Template Designer is an Arc Map extension New Century Software that creates and customizes templates. Each template consists of a number of that represent different types of data associated with the map. The template determines what information will be used in the band and how it will appear. Ex: 1) Match line bands 2) Field note band etc. Alignment sheet creation through GIS is less complex and can save nearly 50% time at initial creation, also it will be easy to update the layer information of the database in case of re-routing or alignment change when compare to manual method of alignment sheet creation.
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Dr. Deb Jyoti Pal
Head – Business Development
Space Imaging Middle East
UAE
Bio
Dr. Pal has over 22 years of experience in the IT and Geospatial fields, including extensive experience in Research & Consultancy for the development of Remote Sensing & GIS projects. He started his career as a Scientist in an government organization.
He has an established reputation for his excellence in management and commitment to maintaining excellent quality standards in large-scale GIS projects. Over the span of his career, he has accumulated expertise in the application of geospatial technologies across sectors, including Energy, Utilities, Government, Exploration, Telecoms, Environment and Land Use.
In year 2002, Dr Pal was selected as Young scientist by International Association of Geomorphologist.
He currently heads the Business Development division at Space Imaging Middle East, and is responsible for all aspects of needs identification, strategy planning, delivery management and quality governance.
Abstract
Mapping habitats and bathymetry with satellites: state of the technology and case studies
For the past several decades, considerable research and development has been directed at deriving bathymetry and mapping benthic cover - two key components for coastal management - using satellite image data. The first generation of approaches to deriving bathymetry from satellite data used so-called empirical methods. Although relatively easy to implement, these methods require already known depth information for the study area. By contrast, second generation, so-called physics-based methods, require no a priori information, and can in principle therefore be applied to any location worldwide for which suitable image data is available. In practice however, most physics-based methods are in the research and development stage, with few such applications able to deliver robust and accurate bathymetry products in a timely manner.
Here, we present the results of the physics-based method MIP (Modular Inversion Processor) for estimating bathymetry and mapping benthic cover that has been successfully used in over 20 studies worldwide, including such diverse locations as the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea, the Caspian Sea, the Mexican Maya coast, and the entire Great Barrier Reef. For the bathymetry, comparisons against airborne and ship-borne field measurements reveal typical accuracies of within 10-20% (CE90) of validation data. The MIP is a coupled approach: it uses the derived water depth information to calculate the confounding effects of the water column on the satellite signal. From this, the reflectance, or colour, of the seafloor is produced. This is the equivalent of acquiring a satellite image of the seafloor with the overlying water column removed (Figure 1). This allows for benthic classification routines to be implemented with considerable more accuracy. We submit that the most effective satellite-based benthic mapping solution to date is to deliver this seafloor reflectance product to specialists in the benthic assemblages of the given study area. Indeed, this is the approach taken in a recent mapping projects for the Abu Dhabi Environmental Agency (EAD), for mapping the benthic habitat and bathymetry of Abu Dhabi, and for the Mexican National Commission for Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity (CONABIO) for mapping the Mexican Maya coast.
Satellites with different spatial resolution / grid spacing from 1.3m to 15m can be used to provide bathymetric and seafloor habitat information. It provides a cost and time affective solution to map extended areas in high resolution and short time. For Oman the technique could already has already been proofed successfully. Bathymetric and seafloor habitat information can be provided for Oman within short period.
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