A multi-data sources method for the validation of old image classification in order to measure the scattered urbanisation process

This article proposed a mapping and validation method of old low resolution satellite images, based on the use of existing GI covers at different scales for different periods. This method can be described as a multi data sources method for the validation of old image classification in order to measure the scattered urbanisation process as it uses three kinds of data: satellite images, GI vectorial covers, and digitised paper maps. The hypothesis is that the satellite image allows to map the exact borders of homogeneous patches, while small scale vector GI cover provides the exact content. That is why satellite images are used to increase the precision of the GI cover. However, the content of homogeneous patches detected on the images is not totally unknown, as absolute radiometric values and visual texture analysis on coloured band combination gives some information.