An adaptive and automated method for masking cloud on Landsat data

In this paper, an automated cloud masking approach for Landsat images has been proposed. The methodology couples linear constraint extracted from the Tasseled Cap Transformation (TCT) and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) for masking cloud. The results are assessed in comparison with the Automatic Cloud Cover Assessment (ACCA) algorithm and show a fine agreement for Landsat ETM+ images. Since the algorithm proposed here doesn´t rely on the thermal band and other accessorial data, this method could be applied to other high resolution sensors, like SPOT, HJ, IRS, et al.