Morphometric analysis of aeolian bedforms in the Namib Sand Sea using ASTER data

A morphometric analysis of aeolian bedforms in the Namib Sand Sea, leveraging the ASTER Global Digital Elevation Model (GDEM), reveals that relationships between dune height, spacing, and equivalent sand thickness are broadly consistent with prior field-based studies. Despite the 30-meter spatial resolution of GDEM data, which underestimates dune height due to crest smoothing and omits smaller dunes, the study confirms established patterns while adding finer details. The research highlights the utility of GDEM for large-scale morphometric analysis, offering new insights into the dynamics of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bullard, J. E., White, K., & Livingstone, I. (2011). Morphometric analysis of aeolian bedforms in the Namib Sand Sea using ASTER data. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms, 36(11), 1534–1549. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/esp.2189