One-layer RGB representation of big EO data analyses for supporting the visual communication of multi-temporal change detection

Challenge:

Big EO data, such as provided by the European Copernicus programme, are a great opportunity for continuous temporally high-frequent global monitoring of the environment. Challenges exist not only in the processing of the big multitemporal data* but also in communicating results in a meaningful and
useful manner, especially for non-EO experts.
We present an approach for big EO data analyses in a semantic EO data cube and communicate results using a single-layer RGB (red, green, blue) representation, where each colour represents one of three different user-defined time periods. We focus on change analysis of observed vegetation, but the approach can be used in other applications. The resulting RGB layer serves as an interpretable base map that can be integrated in any GIS or browser interface. Multi-temporal information is encoded in different colour combinations. An adaptable colour cube legend aids interpretation.