Exploring the Capabilities of Optical Satellite Imagery in Evaluating Pavement Condition

This study explores the use of satellite imagery as a rapid and cost-effective alternative to evaluate road surface condition. Spectral and texture information derived from 30-cm panchromatic and 1.2-m spaceborne optical imagery were used to assess the capabilities of satellite images in describing pavement distresses. The spectral analysis of the multispectral images indicates that pavements become brighter across all the bands as the roads become rougher. The pixel brightness values decreased when pavements were classified based on deteriorating rutting condition. While this may be useful in characterizing individual distresses, this opposing behavior of the pixel brightness values limits the capabilities of spectral indices approach in analyzing overall pavement condition when multiple distresses are present in the same location. All the texture metrics were found to follow a logical relation with pavement conditions, indicating strong evidence that satellite data have the potential to be an alternative method to evaluate pavement condition.