This book describes recent progress in object-based image interpretation. It presents new results in its application to verification of nuclear non-proliferation. A comprehensive workflow and newly developed algorithms for object-based high resolution image (pre-) processing, feature extraction, change detection, classification and interpretation are developed, applied and evaluated. The analysis chain is demonstrated with satellite imagery acquired over Iranian nuclear facilities.

The availability of new high resolution satellite data brings with it the need for new image analysis methods. Traditional pixel-oriented algorithms do not give credit to the spatial coherence of high resolution imagery. In particular, for detection and classification of man-made structures, object-based procedures are much more appropriate. The use of object features such as scale, compactness, orientation and texture, in addition to spectral characteristics, extends the possibilities of remote sensing satellite image analysis considerably.This book describes recent progress in object-based image interpretation, and also presents many new results in its application to verification of nuclear non-proliferation.

With the considerable advances made in the quality of sensors on board commercial observation satellites, information gained from them not only became widely available, but very useful for the verification of a number of arms control treaties including the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (the NPT). Satellites have begun to play an important role in the safeguards procedures under the NPT. For example, from satellites, nuclear facilities and activities such as the construction and shapes of buildings (including underground activities), plant expansion, and changes in operational status can be monitored. For an effective use of satellite imagery, it is important to determine identifiable signatures related to nuclear facilities that could be used in the interpretation and verification of activities. The book presents studies on visual and computer-based interpretation of remote sensing data for international safeguards purposes.