Lithologic mapping of Aja granitic batholiths, Ha’il, Saudi Arabia, using remote sensing

In this study, remote sensing, field and petrographic investigation were integrated for lithological mapping of different granitic masses in Aja complex of Ha’il, Saudi Arabia. The Landsat-8 data were processed to spectrally discriminate variations within rock types using band combinations, band ratioing and principal component analysis (PCA) techniques. Results showed that band combination of the principal components could potentially distinguish the different rock units of Aja complex than any other transform. Field observations and petrographic identification were performed to validate remotely sensing data and to map different rock units. Alkali granites were accurately recorded on the peripheries of Aja Mountain. The present study demonstrates that remote sensing techniques could provide useful tools for mapping economic rock types, particularly in well-exposed arid regions.