How Advanced Radar Technology is Transforming Geohazard and Infrastructure Monitoring

We’re excited to share that 3vGeomatics (3vG), a key part of Orica Digital Solutions’ Geosolutions portfolio, is enhancing our ground movement monitoring service by integrating data from the NISAR (NASA–ISRO) SAR satellite. By leveraging NISAR’s advanced radar capabilities, we now deliver more reliable, cost-effective insights, especially in remote and vegetated areas. Here’s a closer look at the technology behind it.  

How does NISAR work?

NISAR is the first satellite mission to use dual radar frequencies: L-band and S-band, to systematically map Earth’s surface. Its L-band radar, with a longer wavelength (~240 mm), penetrates vegetation, where traditional SAR data struggle. The S-band radar is currently used for targeted applications in India.

Why this is a game-changer for geohazard monitoring

• Large Image Footprints: Cover extensive land areas (excluding oceans) with uniform resolution. 
• 12-Day Revisit Cycle: Offers regular updates for timely monitoring 
• Open Data Policy: Raw SAR imagery is freely available; 3vG processes it into actionable InSAR insights.

What problems does NISAR solve?

NISAR directly addresses key challenges faced by infrastructure operators across mining, energy, transport, and government sectors:

Risk Management

• Detect ground movement early
• Monitor infrastructure at scale
• Respond faster to geohazards
• Meet regulatory requirements

Monitoring in Vegetated and Remote Areas

• L-band radar penetrates vegetation
• Enables reliable tracking in areas previously inaccessible to traditional InSAR

Scalable Network Monitoring

• NISAR’s global reach and revisit cycle allow affordable monitoring of entire networks, including pipelines, railways, roads, and power distribution networks.

Timely Insights

• Integrated with 3vG’s advanced processing platforms
• Delivers near real-time data for faster, more informed decisions

Why it matters

3vG’s NISAR-powered service makes it easier and more cost-effective to monitor ground movement, regardless of the location of your assets. From dense forests to remote terrain, it delivers reliable insights at scale.

What that means for you:

• Fast, regular updates to detect risks early
• Coverage across entire networks, including pipelines, roads and railways
• Reliable monitoring in harsh environments, including vegetated slopes, remote sites, and long infrastructure corridors.

Learn more about 3vG and NISAR: [Link to BLOG 1]

Speak to an expert about NISAR, TODAY.