Research on the damage of the Great Wall of Ming Dynasty in Beijing by remote sensing

Abstract

Using aerial photos and high resolution satellite images of the year of 2004, this paper establishes remote sensing interpretation marks of the Great Wall of Ming Dynasty’s damaged levels. Based on field survey and remote sensing survey in 1984, we analyzed present situation and changing characteristics being of the Great Wall of Ming Dynasty in Beijing. The results show that about 7.02% of the wall is well-preserved (about 25861 m); 31.5% of the wall is slightly or moderately damaged (about 115989 m); 61.5% of the wall is badly damaged (about 226379 m). This paper analyzes the dynamic change of the Great Wall of Ming Dynasty. It shows that the damaged situation of the Great Wall of Ming Dynasty in Beijing is serious. From 1984 to 2004, the well-preserved wall is decreased by 33206 m (decreased by 56%); badly damaged wall increased by 51207 m (increased by 67%). Finally, this paper analyzes the influence factors of damaging Great Wall. The conclusion is as follows: The damaged Great Wall is generally near the roads and villages, small slope, and easily arriving land.