Precision Comparison of Several Algorithms for Approximate Geometric Correction of CBERS-02B High Resolution Image

The high resolution (HR) camera, designed to have the capability of providing 2.36-meter panchromatic images, is one of three sensors onboard the CBERS-02B satellite. Because the orbit ephemeris and camera parameters needed for rigorous geometric correction are not included in the "leader files" of the HR images, approximate geometric correction algorithms have to be testified to establish the suitable geometric correction methods. In this paper, the emphasis is put on the experimental analysis and precision comparison of different kinds of approximate correction algorithms using the real CBERS-02B HR image from the viewpoints of GCP number, precision, the algorithm complexity and the applicability. Experimental results show that if the balance among precision, complexity, requirements for known data should be considered when choosing methods for the CBERS-02B HR images geometric correction, the improved polynomial method is an ideal choice. After precisely geometric correction, the HR images can be used in the surveying and mapping, land management, town planning, etc.