Potential of kite aerial photography for Quaternary investigations in Poland

Abstract

Aerial photographs taken from kites provide a versatile and low-cost means to acquire high-resolution, large-sale imagery for special Quaternary investigations. Kite aerial photographs (KAP) are typically taken from heights of 50-150 m using light-weight automatic cameras. Pictures may be acquired in vertical and oblique vantages. Scanning of photographs and digital processing allow for resampling, enhancement, and analysis of images. We have utilized basic KAP at five sites in eastern and northern Poland in order to evaluate the potential of KAP for Quaternary investigations. Our preliminary results suggest that KAP may provide detailed and repetitive imagery of geomorphic conditions, soils, land cover/use, and other surface features related to Quaternary processes, landforms, and deposits. However, KAP will not replace conventional aerial photography for general survey and mapping purposes.