Elaboration of methodology of geometric correction of a block of satellite images of very high resolution

Aim of project
The project involves the development of methodology for correcting the geometry of such blocks. Theoretical consideration demonstrates that by utilizing geometric relations between adjacent images it is possible to subject an entire block to correction by minimizing the number of points needed for the geodetic network, i.e. the most costly component of the entire geometric correction process. An objective stated in this way will be achieved by solving a series of detailed research problems. Most of these involve the impact of the following factors on the fi nal result of geometric correction:
Mathematical models describing the geometry of the satellite image;
Size and shape of the block;
Number and layout of points of the geodetic network;
Number and layout of tie points (common points in strips of mutual coverage of adjacent images);
Numerical accuracy of the terrain model.

The geometric relations between images forming the blocks and the mathematical models describing them shall be examined. Methodological proposals shall be checked using experimental blocks of Ikonos and QuickBird images. Various models describing the geometry of individual images as block elements shall be utilized.

The developed methodology for correcting satellite images for creating cartometric studies shall fi nd practical application in major projects planned for implementation in Poland. Just recently, such images have found application for developing a Land Parcel Identification System (LPIS). The national geodetic service is also interested in VHR images, which they see as an alternative to aerial photographs in developing medium-scale vector databases (e.g. Vmap Level 2 and TBD). Thus, improving geometrical corrections to blocks of satellite images, not only to individual images, meets the practical demands of the most important tasks for the upcoming years in the realm of geodesy, cartography, spatial planning, environmental protection, and national defense.

Expected results
The topics addressed in the project are very current. There is demand for similar results both at home and abroad. Thus, extensive presentation of the results is planned at foreign and national conferences. The establishment of close collaboration with representatives of the Satellite Center for Regional Operations (SCOR), the Head Office of Geodesy and Cartography (GUGiK), and the Agency for Restructuring and Modernization of Agriculture (ARiMR), institutions that may be interested in the received results, is expected. The development of a publication on the national and international scale is also planned. The research will provide participants with both theoretical and practical substance.