Image-based approach for satellite visibility analysis in critical environments
Journal
Acta Geodaetica et Geophysica
Journal Volume
51
Journal Issue
1
Pages
113-123
Date Issued
2016
Author(s)
Abstract
The global navigation satellite system (GNSS) positioning solution relies greatly on the satellite configuration visible at a specific receiver location. As a consequence, satellite visibility analysis considering the surrounding terrain obstruction, becomes a key step when the GNSS positioning quality is to be evaluated. Current satellite visibility analysis requires high-resolution digital surface model (DSM) data and is thus a pricey and time-consuming task. In this study, an image-based approach for the satellite visibility analysis is proposed. Terrain obstructions are first identified from photo images, using image-processing techniques. The maximal obstruction angle at each direction is then determined, based on photogrammetric principles. According to the results from a case study, this novel approach provides a satellite visibility analysis solution comparable to that of the current DSM approaches, but with significantly improved computational efficiency. Consequently, a highly efficient and low-cost satellite visibility analysis becomes possible when the proposed approach is implemented.
SDGs
Type
journal article