Effect of Land Cover Type on 3D Deformation Recovery From Synthetically Deformed High Resolution Satellite Optical Imagery

Abstract The limits of detection for earthquake surface deformation in the spatial domain have improved with advances in remote sensing imagery data availability, resolution, and analysis. Sub‐pixel correlation and digital elevation model (DEM) differencing from sub‐meter, earthquake‐spanning satellite optical imagery has enhanced surface rupture mapping and deformation measurements. However, knowledge of measurement accuracy and uncertainty is limited. To address this, we construct orthophotos and digital elevation models (DEMs) from repeat high resolution (∼0.5 m) satellite optical imagery along two sections of the Garlock fault, California with clear fault geomorphology and differing land cover. We deform later sets of DEMs and images with synthetic earthquakes containing both diffuse and discrete horizontal and vertical displacements. Sub‐pixel image correlation and DEM differencing demonstrate how vegetation degrades recovered displacement accuracy. In barren land cover, horizontal displacements are detectable to an expected ∼1/10th‐pixel size. With shrubs, trees, and grass, detectable displacements increase to >1/2‐pixel size, and filtering results by correlation score and using elevation values as input rather than image values improves accuracy. Vertical displacement detection thresholds remain lower in vegetation, at >1‐pixel size. Higher slope angles degrade displacement recovery, worsened by vegetation. Diminishing seasonal separation improves accuracy over vegetated regions, though not to the level achieved in barren environments. These results will inform research and operational efforts on the utility of high resolution satellite optical imagery for detecting deformation in varied land cover. Furthermore, they reveal where alternative measurements, such as from LiDAR or radar interferometry, are required to mitigate the effects of vegetation and capture fine‐scale crustal deformation.