Band Algebra

Band Algebra enables users to extract more information from satellite imagery beyond simple true color observations. By using mathematical equations to compare spectral bands, Band Algebra can highlight specific features within a scene based on their known spectral properties. This technique allows for the identification and analysis of various surface features, such as vegetation health, water bodies, mineral compositions, and more, providing a deeper understanding of the observed area.

In this section we will demonstrate how to use the band algebra tools in DataCosmos.

Pre-defined indicies

Common applications of Band Algebra include the calculation of indices such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) for assessing vegetation health, the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) for detecting water bodies, and the Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) for minimizing soil brightness influences. These indices and others are critical in fields such as agriculture, environmental monitoring, urban planning, and disaster management, offering valuable insights that guide decision-making and resource management.

Users can find many of these indices pre-configured in the band algebra toolkit within the layers tab.

User-defined band algebra

Users can define their own spectral indices using the custom algebra tool within the DataCosmos Band Algebra toolkit.

By selecting the custom algebra option, users can manually enter new equations or adjust the value range of predefined equations.

Custom algebra configurations are saved under the custom dropdown menu, allowing them to be applied to other products with the same spectral bands.

Check that the satellite payload carries the bands you require when entering band algebra.

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