The present study aims to work out a methodology based on the use of the sensors such TERRA MODIS (MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) in the desertification following and the detection of desertification risk zones in the northern area of Algeria. To this end, some geophysical parameters (albedo "R0", vegetation index "NDVI'' and surface temperature "TS") are produced regularly and cover the period of 2000 to 2005. The combination of these parameters two per two especially R0 -TS, NDVI-TS and R0 - NDVI has allowed respectively the characterization of the hydric and vegetation state. The synthesis of the totality of results under a geographical information system GIS as well as their confrontation with others types of data have allowed to map the desertification risk following five degrees (very high, high, moderated, weak and stable). Our results show that 75 % of the risk zones are already desertify or near of desertification.