Topographic controls on subpixel change detection in western Himalayas

Over Himalayas, the detection of seasonal snow cover variations via remote sensing is challenging due to presence rugged terrain and shadow effects. Moreover, traditional per-pixel-based change methods less competent identify inner-pixel subtle with coarse resolution satellite imagery. In present work, we have proposed subpixel-based (SCD) algorithm examine impact topographic correction (TC) on SCD algorithm. For experimental purposes, has been implemented over a part Himalayas (Himachal Pradesh, India) using two sensor datasets i.e. AWiFS Landsat-8 OLI/TIRS. Experimental outcomes confirmed effectiveness topographically corrected (86.17% 85.38% Landsat-8) as compared uncorrected (81.82% 84.19% Landsat-8). The framework proven be significant in terms both information extraction from shadowed areas variations. This study many applications especially field climatology, glaciology, hydrology.