Identifying Geomorphic Features between Ras Gemsha and Safaga, Red Sea Coast, Egypt, Using Remote Sensing Techniques

The dynamic nature of Ras Gemsha-Safaga coastal zone along the Egyptian sector of the Red Sea and its targeting for future development necessitate updating the available information on its geomorphology and on distribution of its landforms and natural habitats. In order to provide information of this kind, a rapid and replicable technique is inquired. The synoptic capability of remote sensing images from Landsat and other similar satellites enable mapping of large sections of coasts at satisfactorily accuracy. In this study, an image from Landsat ETM+ acquired on 9 September 2000 has been processed and results of remote sensing analyses have been combined with field observations and reference data to delineate and describe the main geomorphologic and topographic features of Ras Gemsha- Safaga coast. Principal component analysis (PCA) and false color composite (FCC) were found to be among the most successful remote sensing techniques for mapping of geomorphologic features of the mainland. A combination of bands 3, 2, 1 in a RGB display (i.e. true color) was found the best to demonstrate submerged reefs and areas of high density reefs. Following this approach, it was possible to identify most prominent geomorphic units and landforms of the study area. These include fluvial terraces, fossiliferous reefs, alluvial fans, desert wadis, salt pans and sabkhas, spits and sand bars, and submerged reefs.