Mapping ground movements in open pit mining areas using differential SAR interferometry

The coherent pixel technique is an advanced differential SAR interferometry technique that has been used for mapping and monitoring ground movements in La Union mining area (Murcia, SE Spain). This technique was originally used to monitormining subsidence in La Union Town butun known ground instabilities were detected in an abandoned open pitmining are a nearby. Measured displacements have been analyzed with respect to geometrical and geological factors that play a role in ground movements. Then a ''blindtest'', consisting on geomorphological mapping of detected deformed areas, was performed in order to identify the existence of unknown active processes: slope instabilities and flat accumulation areas. Finally, a detailed analysis of these results has permitted to illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of usingt his technique form apping ground movements in mining areas. (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.