Mining subsidence land survey by SAR interferometry

The overall philosophy of this collaborative project, between Doncaster College, WE Mining (UK), GEC Marconi Research Centre and Matra Marconi Space (UK), is to improve the accuracy of subsidence prediction models implemented in the mining industry. These models help mine management, in terms of productivity, conformity with regulatory consent, and minimised environmental and economical impacts. However, the models currently produce actual to predicted subsidence results in the range 43%-773%, which then have to be adjusted using local knowledge. The project aims to provide accurate data on elevation change due to mining activity, via the application of radar interferometry with ERS synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data. These elevation change data can then be fed into subsidence models to improve predictions about subsidence. Initial interferometry results are presented showing evidence of subsidence. Validation is underway and preliminary interpretations are offered and discussed.