Detecting Streamflow in Dryland Rivers Using CubeSats

Determining the flow regime of non-perennial rivers is critical in hydrology. In this study, we developed a new approach using CubeSat imagery to detect streamflow presence using differences in surface reflectance for areas within and outside of a river reach. We calibrated the approach with streamflow records in the Hassayampa River of Arizona over 3 years (2019-2021), finding good agreement in the annual fractions of flowing days at stream gages (R-2 = 0.82, p < 0.0001). Subsequently, annual fractions of flowing days were derived at 90 m intervals along the Hassayampa River, finding that 12% of reaches were classified as intermittent, with the remaining as ephemeral. Using a Hovmoller diagram, streamflow presence was visualized in unprecedented spatiotemporal detail, allowing estimates of daily fraction of flowing channel and annual fractions of flowing days. This new tool opens avenues for detecting streamflow and studying hydrological and biogeochemical processes dependent on water presence in drylands.

Automated summary

In this study, a new approach using CubeSat imagery was developed to detect the flow regime of non-perennial rivers. The approach was calibrated and validated using streamflow records in the Hassayampa River, resulting in accurate estimates of streamflow presence. This new tool provides unprecedented spatiotemporal detail for studying hydrological and biogeochemical processes in drylands.