The publication of this Handbook was supported by the Russian Federation

Compilation of a draft map based on satellite imagery
The most widely known parameters of  satellite images of  saline and alkaline soils of  arid 
environments of  the dry steppe include a relatively light tone of  images in most ranges of  the 
spectrum and a complex pattern of  images. A reliable indirect method of  mapping involves the 
use of  phyto-indicators of  salt-affected soils based on the MSI data from high- and ultra-high- 
resolution images (e.g., Spot, Landsat, Terra, Pleiades) [8].
The MSI-based mapping of  saline and alkaline soils follows a generally accepted algorithm that 
includes several stages. At the initial image-processing stage, one should perform a successive 
systematic, radiometric, atmospheric and geometric correction of  the image, with radiometric 
calibration  and  increases  in  image  contrast  and  spatial  filtration.  At  the  stage  of   statistical 
analysis of  the image, the optimal number of  classes is determined for the next stage – the image 
classification. Digital processing and classification result in the creation of  a draft map that reflects 
the relative positioning of  the areas studied. The latter are delineated by geographical coordinates 
and distinguished by their surface optical parameters.