Spectral signatures of teak (Tectona grandis L.) using hyperspectral (EO-1) data

This communication demonstrates the benefits of imaging spectrometry in the study of the spectral reflectance characteristics of teak (Tectona grandis L.) growing in Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat, using the EO-1 Hyperion data from NASA, USA. Hyperion is a space-borne, sensor providing detailed information of the earth's surface features with an imaging spectrometer having 242 spectral bands ranging from 400 to 2500 nm. An atmospheric scattering and absorption effect within the image was corrected with Atmospheric Correction Now software from ImSpec LLC. MNF transformation was applied to determine the presence of cross-track spectral smile, which appeared as a brightness gradient in visible-near infrared bands. Destreaking was also applied to minimize the striping artifacts normally found in Hyperion data. The reflectance spectra. so derived were compared with raw-data spectra. Sharp variations were seen in the spectral signatures of teak with reference to variations in girth class and. slope of the area, indicating the high sensitivity associated with the Hyperion sensor. Spectral variation was better in shortwave infrared-I region, indicating its uniqueness for studying the vegetation cover.