The application of remotely sensed data for the industrial evaluation of the volcanic tuff and basaltic flows and its potential in developing the Badya region, NE Jordan

The study area which represents part of the Northern Badya region, located NE & E of Azraq NE Jordan, is characterised by the presence of exposed basalt that is of probable maximum age of 13.7 million years and belongs to alkali olivine basalt series. In addition, various types of sedimentary rocks and basalts including the Zeoloite bearing scoriaceous tuffs are present. Due to the fact that the area is becoming an important target for geological survey activities, mineral exploration and industrial investment, this area was chosen for conducting a study based on satellite imagery interpretation of Landsat Thematic Mapper and Multispectral Scanner. As a result, certain basaltic flows were discriminated and some new structural elements were identified. Moreover, a number of suggestions concerning future development of the area were proposed. A map showing the geological interpretation of linear features at a sub-regional scale has been produced together with a map showing various basaltic flows as interpreted from Thematic Mapper images.