Levantamiento estructural de la zona noroeste de Loja a partir de fotografías aéreas de 1984

Abstract

Abstract: Through photo interpretation of historical aerial photographs (1984) at a scale of 1:5000, this study describes the structural characteristics of the northwest of the Loja basin. The images are georeferenced in a Geographic Information System (GIS). The use of a mirror stereoscope allowed for the identification of escarpments, slopes, tone controls, and structural drainage controls, which helped to find faults, folds, and lineaments. As a backup, an orthomosaic was created from aerial images processed in Agisoft Metashape, projected in UTM 17S (WGS84), to verify the spatial continuity of the interpreted elements and compare them with current information. The results show recurring lines and areas of distinct deformation, as well as folded structures that are considered to be in a compressive regime. The comparison shows that many structures identified in 1984 are still evident today, providing valuable cartographic information for tectonic studies, hazard assessment, and land-use planning. Overall, the study demonstrates that photo interpretation of historical aerial photographs is an effective tool for structural analysis and provides relevant information for understanding the geology of the Loja basin.