Autoregistration of high-resolution satellite imagery using LIDAR intensity data

We propose a method for automatic registration of high-resolution satellite imagery using LIDAR intensity data. We first generate a reference image using LIDAR intensity data as an alternative to ground control points, which allows us to conduct the GCP collection process automatically. Next, the proposed automatic matching is applied to the target and reference images. In the matching process, image chips are used as registration primitives and their edge information are employed as primary information for similarity measurements. Based on these principles, the overall registration procedure was developed to be automatic and straightforward. To test the feasibility of the developed method, we designed an experiment using multimodal and multitemporal real datasets: a stereo pair of IKONOS-2 images, one Quickbird image and LIDAR data. The experimental results show that the accuracy is acceptable for practical applications. The results of this study should pave the way for the development of an automatic and generally applicable registration method of high-resolution satellite imagery using LIDAR intensity data.