ICESat-2 Elevation Retrievals in Support of Satellite-Derived Bathymetry for Global Science Applications.

Bathymetry retrievals from 2D, multispectral imagery, referred to as Satellite-Derived Bathymetry (SDB), afford the potential to obtain global, nearshore bathymetric data in optically clear waters. However, accurate SDB depth retrievals are limited in the absence of "seed depths." The Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2) space-based altimeter has proven capable of accurate bathymetry, but methods of employing ICESat-2 bathymetry for SDB retrievals over broad spatial extents are immature. This research aims to establish and test a baseline methodology for generating bathymetric surface models using SDB with ICESat-2. The workflow is operationally efficient (17-37 min processing time) and capable of producing bathymetry of sufficient vertical accuracy for many coastal science applications, with RMSEs of 0.96 and 1.54 m when using Sentinel-2 and Landsat 8, respectively. The highest priorities for further automation have also been identified, supporting the long-range goal of global coral reef habitat change analysis using ICESat-2-aided SDB.

A Review of LIDAR Radiometric Processing: From Ad Hoc Intensity Correction to Rigorous Radiometric Calibration.

In addition to precise 3D coordinates, most light detection and ranging (LIDAR) systems also record "intensity", loosely defined as the strength of the backscattered echo for each measured point. To date, LIDAR intensity data have proven beneficial in a wide range of applications because they are related to surface parameters, such as reflectance. While numerous procedures have been introduced in the scientific literature, and even commercial software, to enhance the utility of intensity data through a variety of "normalization", "correction", or "calibration" techniques, the current situation is complicated by a lack of standardization, as well as confusing, inconsistent use of terminology. In this paper, we first provide an overview of basic principles of LIDAR intensity measurements and applications utilizing intensity information from terrestrial, airborne topographic, and airborne bathymetric LIDAR. Next, we review effective parameters on intensity measurements, basic theory, and current intensity processing methods. We define terminology adopted from the most commonly-used conventions based on a review of current literature. Finally, we identify topics in need of further research. Ultimately, the presented information helps lay the foundation for future standards and specifications for LIDAR radiometric calibration.

A dual-spectrometer approach to reflectance measurements under sub-optimal sky conditions.

This paper presents a practical method for the development of spectral reflectance libraries under sub-optimal sky conditions. Although there are commercially available spectrometers which simultaneously measure both downwelling and upwelling radiance to mitigate the impact of sub-optimal sky conditions, these spectrometers only record in the visible and near infra-red. There are presently no commercially available spectrometers with this capability that can record the visible through short-wave infra-red. This paper presents a practical method of recording and processing data using coordinated measurements from two full-range spectrometers and discusses potential pitfalls and solutions required to achieve accurate reflectance spectra. Results demonstrate that high-quality spectral reflectance libraries can be developed with this approach.