Time series InSAR deformation monitoring based on Sentinel-1 in Datong mining area, Shanxi

As one of the major geological hazards in coal mining areas, surface subsidence severely impacts the sustainable development of the local economy and the safety and stability of residents' lives. Therefore, it is essential to conduct rapid and efficient monitoring of surface subsidence in mining areas. Taking the Datong Yungang Coalfield as an example, this study utilized 31 Sentinel-1 images from July 5, 2023, to March 20, 2025. Based on the Small Baseline Subset InSAR (SBAS-InSAR) and Permanent Scatterer Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (PS-InSAR) techniques, surface subsidence was monitored to obtain the subsidence rate and cumulative subsidence results in the Datong Coalfield. The spatiotemporal characteristics and evolution patterns of subsidence were analyzed. Time-series InSAR deformation monitoring results indicate that 13 mining areas in Yungang District, Datong City, exhibit varying degrees of subsidence with no signs of deceleration. The study demonstrates the feasibility of time-series InSAR technology for monitoring subsidence in coal mining areas, providing a new technical approach for mineral resource management. The findings offer scientific support for subsidence monitoring and early warning, disaster prevention and control, and the rational exploitation and utilization of resources in coal mining areas.