Leak detection from rural aqueducts using airborne remote sensing techniques

Water companies require quick methods of identifying leakage from rural subterranean aqueducts over large areas. This research assessed the possibility of locating water leaks using airborne remotely sensed data and thus considered if such leaks expressed unique and identifiable features. Analysis of soil moisture and vegetation biomass inferred using Airborne Thematic Mapper imagery enabled two known leaks to be highlighted as distinct from their immediate surroundings on the Vyrnwy Aqueduct, North West England.