Remote Sensing Systems Optimization for Geobase Enhancement

The U.S. Air Force is in the process of implementing GeoBase, a geographic information system (GIS), throughout its worldwide installations. Air Force GIS needs can be augmented by imagery from aerial and satellite platforms. Imagery has greatly improved over the past several years and provides high resolution coverage of features on earth. Various imagery types will significantly increase GeoBase usefulness in a range of mission requirements. Potential Air Force uses of imagery include identifying heat loss, environmental monitoring, command decision-making, and emergency response. The research develops a decision tool to determine the appropriate imagery for a given Air Force Application. Current literature identified proven imagery applications. Literature review and a 2002 Air Force Geo-Integration Office (AF/GIO) survey were used to develop a comprehensive imagery applications list that satisfies Air Force mission requirements. An imagery decision matrix was crafted that allows a user to select an application and see imagery that fulfills the requirements for the task. An imagery system key provides further details of each imagery type. The matrix was tested at three Air Force bases. Increased awareness of the possibilities of an imagery-enriched GeoBase, and the efficiency afforded by the matrix, greatly reduces the time to identify and implement imagery. Available imagery was identified for the three Air Force bases at the National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA) through a government contract at no additional cost. Current IKONOS imagery of Elmendorf Air Force base was obtained for analysis and implementation into GeoBase.