Satellite and aerial imagery geo-referencing using ground features

Abstract

The method of geo-referencing satellite- and aerial imagery using reference points, linear and non-linear features, and segments of geodetic tracks as elements of a plan-altitude basis is discussed in this article. The method can be used for any mathematical model of satellite- and aerial imagery. The parametric description of the features, that can be used for the geo-referencing and various mathematical models of the above-mentioned imagery are presented. The mathematical formulation of the matter of satellite and aerial imagery geo-referencing using terrain objects and reference points is presented. A list of linear and non-linear features that can be included in a high-raised basis along with reference points is made. A generalized algorithm for geo-referencing satellite and aerial imagery using reference points and terrain features is given. The algorithm includes making a nonlinear system of equations for reference points and items, linearizing the system and solving by the sequential approximation technique according to the least squares method. An example of clarifying the satellite RPC-model and aerial imagery using reference points, linear and non-linear features is given. The advantages of the proposed method of using features created according to the measurements on satellite and aerial imagery compared with method, when the model of the feature is created according to the measurements on the ground are described.