Geospatial Systems -

Eleanor Myall

Biography

About Ellie

Prior to joining the 4th cohort of the EPSRC Geospatial Systems CDT at Newcastle University, I completed a MPhys in Astrophysics at the University of Liverpool. During my degree, I specialised in Observational Astrophysics, which led me to appreciate how similar sensors and techniques are applied to monitor the Earth, which fostered my interest in remote sensing and Earth observation.

Although always intrigued by Earth sciences, I only fully realised the potential of geospatial data when researching applications of Earth observation and remote sensing. Following my degree, I sought to utilise the skills I had developed and turn my attention to how remote sensing can be used for environmental monitoring and disaster mitigation.

My MRes research focused on utilising multi-spectral imagery to detect rockfall scars in deglaciating catchments. As part of this research, I visited the Miage Glacier in Italy to collect data. I found this project exceptionally interesting, with numerous possibilities for future development and exploration.

My PhD research builds on this project, aiming to create a low-cost rockfall monitoring system which will have wide-reaching applications particularly for risk mitigation. I am using Raspberry Pi computers and cameras to capture images of rock walls. I hope to develop a pixel-based detection method to detect rockfalls by exploiting colours in the images My research integrates diverse themes, including embedded systems, computer vision, Internet of Things, and geomorphology.