From batch to distributed image processing: remote sensing for mineral exploration 1972-1992

Abstract

The routine use of satellite remotely sensed imagery for a variety of applications is twenty years old this year. In addition to these digital photographs of the earth's surface, subterranean views are made using gravity, magnetics, electrical techniques, seismics and the electromagnetic spectrum from microwaves to radio waves. The need to process these large volumes of data in an interactive manner leading to a visual result has made very specific demands on computer hardware, system design and processing algorithms. From large mainframe computers running in batch mode, the market has moved through mini to personal computers. New algorithms too, have emerged and a start has been made at identifying an objective criterion to evaluate processed images. We discuss some of these issues in the application of image processing to mineral exploration in South Africa.