Spatial analysis of sand dunes with a new global topographic dataset: new approaches and opportunities

On June 29, 2009, version 1 of the ASTER GDEM (Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer Global Digital Elevation Model) was made available at no cost or restrictions to users worldwide via electronic download. The ASTER GDEM provides expanded spatial coverage and better resolution than other global digital elevation models (DEMs). In this paper we demonstrate how the ASTER GDEM provides new opportunities for investigating large aeolian sand dunes in three-dimensions. Two dune-specific spatial analysis methods are presented to illustrate potential applications of these data for discriminating dune generations and quantifying spatial variations of sediment supply. Moreover, we review how existing and emerging fields of dune pattern analysis and simulation modeling will be able to make significant advances through application of these data, potentially leading to future progress in studies of dune morphodynamics, environmental controls, and paleoenvironmental reconstructions. Copyright (C) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.