PSInSAR remote sensing observations of deformation behaviour at Salisbury Plain, UK.

Abstract

DInSAR is a remote sensing method of measuring ground deformation over large areas at sub-mm accuracy, and can provide increased insight into geological processes. Analysis of vegetated areas can be highly challenging, due to highly inconsistent radar scattering patterns. PSInSAR was used to measure deformation over the vegetative Salisbury Plain, UK, area. Periods of 6-months and 2-years were separately analysed which revealed complex motion with separate seasonal and tectonic components. Despite a challenging target area, PSInSAR is shown to offer valuable insight into deformation of the Upper Chalk, identifying faults and highlighting differential ground movement thought to be related to groundwater swelling of neighbouring formations and tectonic movement along pre-existing basement faults.