Geothermal Anomaly Identification and Analysis Based on Remote Sensing Technology and Multi-Source Data in the Datong Basin, China

With increasing worldwide attention to green and sustainable energy, thermal infrared remote sensing technology has gained significant popularity for detecting geothermal anomalies, as it can overcome the limitations of traditional ground surveys. This study explores the potential application of thermal infrared images in geothermal exploration within the Datong Basin. We mainly utilized Landsat-8 images to obtain the actual land surface temperature (LST), hydrothermal alteration, and linear structures of the Datong Basin. Radiative transfer equation algorithm (RTE), principal component analysis (PCA), and interactive interpretation method were applied in this study. The results show that LST retrieval through the RTE method accurately reveals geothermal anomalies in the Datong Basin. Five areas with distinct high-LST values were identified as geothermal anomaly zones based on field investigation, including Xiejiatun, Gushancun, Taipingpu, Shuitongsi, and Wenjiayao–Yuanjialiang. Effective estimation of hydrothermal alteration zones (dominated by clays, OH − /H 2 O, and carbonates) in the basin was achieved using the PCA method and band combinations. In total, 394 linear structures were obtained through interactive interpretation, including 45 concealed structures. All of these linear structures were associated with deep-seated faults. The basin’s primary controlling structures are the Yunmen Mountain piedmont fault (F1-1) and the northern margin of Xiong’er Mountain faults (F1-2 and F1-3), with F1-1 and F1-3 playing a key role in regional thermal regulation. The high-LST premium geothermal target zones of Shuitongsi and Gushancun were identified based on remote sensing interpretations and geothermal geological conditions. Furthermore, strong consistency was verified between the remote sensing predictions and four deep drilling temperature field measurements. This study confirms that remote sensing is an effective approach for geothermal potential identification, providing a scientific basis for future sustainable resource exploration in other regions.