New approach in using eRTK-GPS for direct georeferencing of aerial images in a GIS application

The purpose of this paper is to describe the research conducted in the development and preliminary testing of a real-time georeferencing method for a small-format digital aerial camera system using new methodologies in extended Real-Time Kinematic Global Positioning System (eRTK-GPS) solutions. This system is being developed to supply the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency (USDA FSA) with aerial digital images that would replace the current 35 mm slide film method and facilitate the development of a geographic information system (GIS) for crop compliance support. The direct georeferencing method was developed by the University of Georgia and Texas AandM University-Corpus Christi in fulfillment of the National Aeronautical Space Agency's (NASA) contract for developing new technologies and methodologies in remote sensing. The research included development of eRTK-GPS in an aerial platform where differential solutions 35 kilometers from the base-station generate two-centimeter and five-centimeter accuracy horizontally and vertically from the digital camera exposure station's location. A real-time georeferencing system results in a world file with affine transformation parameters without the need for post-processing GPS or ground control points. Flight tests were conducted in Georgia and Texas with different wireless communication systems to assess the robustness of the solutions on an aerial platform.

New approach in using eRTK-GPS for direct georeferencing of aerial images in a GIS application Academic Article