Analysis of mineral indices from remote sensing: a case-study of the Tokrau river

The study focuses on the use of the Earth Remote Sensing (ERS) data to calculate mineral indices using the example of the Tokrau River. In the modern era, as issues of climate change and human impact on the environment become increasingly prominent, monitoring natural resources has become imperative. In this regard, remote sensing technologies provide valuable data for the study and control of Earth’s resources. The aim of this research is to investigate changes in the mineral composition in the Tokrau River valley using information obtained during Landsat and Sentinel-2A missions from 1998 to 2021 to assess human impact on the ecosystem and to find potential mineral deposits. This work is important both scientifically and practically as it demonstrates that spectral mapping can effectively detect mineral changes. This finding is significant for geological research and environmental monitoring. The research approach included the examination of satellite data, calculation of mineral indices, and comparison of the results obtained in different time periods. The collected data allowed for conclusions to be drawn regarding fluctuations in mineral transformations in the Tokrau River valley. The study complements existing knowledge about the use of remote sensing in geological research and environmental monitoring. It also contributes to international experience in this field. The practical significance of the research lies in utilizing the collected data to develop methods for the protection and responsible use of natural resources in the Tokrau River region and other comparable regions.The research is funded by the Committee of Science of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Grant No. BR21882179).