DEM accuracy of high resolution satellite images

Abstract

The aim of this research is to study the accuracy of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) generated from two different satellite data namely OrbView-3 and IKONOS stereo images. 21 GCPs (Ground Control Points), 182 CPs (Check Points) and selected transects representing different land covers and topography were used for the accuracy analysis. Two DEMs were generated from OrbView-3 and one DEM from IKONOS stereo data. The accuracy of the used model for DEM generation was quantified using the RMSE (Root Mean Square Error) values of GCPs derived from Global Positioning System survey and error analysis over research area was performed using 182 CPs derived from traditional field survey. Several transects were formed over different parts of the study area and height values along these transects obtained from different DEMs were compared to determine and examine the accuracy. The results are analyzed with the empirical accuracy criterion for heights on analog maps. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.