CHALLENGES OF DEPLOYING GROUND-BASED INSAR IN NORTHERN REMOTE AREAS IN CANADA

Ground-based, interferometric, synthetic aperture radar (GB-InSAR) has been extensively and successfully used in the last few years for monitoring natural and man-made slopes. This technology allows for remote monitoring of slope deformations in the line-of-sight (LOS) between the instrument and the slope, providing a map of displacements in the LOS. Near real-time GB-InSAR monitoring allows this technology to be used for safety management of slopes.

Successful and robust deployment of GB-InSAR requires some logistic details including continuous power source, remote connectivity, clear LOS between the instrument and the slope, high and consistent ground reflectivity; and optimal orientation of the LOS. Open pit mines typically provide such logistics and use of the technology has prooven succesful. In some natural settings, logistic details can be challenging to achieve. This is particularly the case for remote, northern areas in Canada characterized by dense vegetation covers, lack of constant power, and long periods of snow coverage and short daylight.

The presentation will address a pilot project of the department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Alberta and BC Hydro to assess the logistical difficulties associated with deploying GB-InSAR at remote, northern areas in Canada. A controlled, known environment was selected for the first stage of the project in order to allow for easy accessibility and trouble shooting, with the goal of deploying GB-InSAR at remote areas in future project stages. The site of this first stage is located north of Revelstoke, in British Columbia, within the Revelstoke Dam Reservoir. Deployment details and challenges are discusses and preliminary results presented.