Testing computational methods to identify deformation trends in RADARSAT persistent scatterers time series for structural assessment of archaeological heritage

RADARSAT-1 data stacks processed by means of Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) over the central archaeological area of Rome, Italy, and radar-interpreted according to the procedure of radar mapping by Tapete and Cigna (2012), were re-analyzed by applying the Deviation Index DI1 defined by Cigna et al. (2012). Our tests aimed to assess how an early computational identification of deformation trends within the displacement time series can support strategies of preventive conservation. The suitability of such semi-automated method for trend recognition is discussed with regard to a traditional approach of manual check of PSI time series, at the scale of single measurement point. Results from the case studies of Palatine and Oppian Hills are presented in this paper, examining both advantages and drawbacks offered by the implementation of such type of computational approach.