Work

Creation of ICESat-2 Footprint Level Global Geodetic Control Points Using Crossover Analysis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Precise measurements of the Earth’s surface are possible using satellite laser altimetry data, as demonstrated by NASA’s ICEsat-2 mission. Recently, the vertical accuracy of ICESat-2 data has been validated to <3 cm (bias) and <15 cm RMSE, making these data a prime candidate for a global reference system. This research will demonstrate a methodology and results for the creation of a network of global, geodetic reference points based on ICESat-2 altimetry crossover heights. In this study, we explore the feasibility of utilizing ICESat-2 terrain heights at crossover locations and we look to evaluate the results from the different beam combinations (i.e., strong–strong, weak–weak, and weak–strong) as well as the impact of acquisition time, land cover, and presence of snow on the results. Comparisons of high-quality ICESat-2 crossovers against airborne lidar data serving as reference were found to have a mean error of less than 15 cm for each AOR examined and RMSE of less than 35 cm for two of the three sites; a RMSE value of 85 cm was obtained for the third site. Preliminary results indicate ICESat-2 crossovers are possible even in forested regions and these data can be used to vertically constrain terrain heights of other data products such as DEMs.

Source: Remote Sensing

DOI: 10.3390/rs17071159

Authors: Amy Neuenschwander, Eric Guenther, Lori Magruder, Jonathan Sipps

Institution: The University of Texas at Austin

Language: English

Topic: Remote Sensing and LiDAR Applications

Subfield: Environmental Engineering

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258

Funder: National Aeronautics and Space Administration