Post-launch geometric calibration of linear array imaging system

Presents a mathematical model of post-launch geometric calibration for linear array imaging systems. This developed model is based on multilens multi-array detector cameras for interior and exterior orientation parameter calibration. Corresponding software has been developed. We evaluated the model and system using the first threefold, along-track stereoscopic MOMS-2P/Priroda imagery, taken from the 390-km orbit of the Mir space station, of a 50 km by 105 km patch covering a portion of Southern Germany. A real accuracy of RMS 15.3 m (0.8 pixel) for x, RMS 8.9 m (0.5 pixel) for y in planimetry and RMS 18.0 m (0.9 pixel) in height was achieved as verified by 24 independent checkpoints distributed over the test field which contained open, forested, and urban areas. We also used a data set acquired by the HRSC from the German Aerospace Research Establishment (DLR) to evaluate our software. The exterior accuracy for this data set was as low as RMS 0.15 m (1.5 pixel) for x, RMS 0.073 m (0.7 pixel) for y and RMS 0.18 m (1.8 pixel) in height. These experimental results demonstrated that our model is applicable for both single- and multi-lens multi-array sensor cameras.