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Hoffer, R. M.

Publications and source records attributed to Hoffer, R. M..

At least 37 records · Page 2

Evaluation of SLAR and thematic mapper MSS data for forest cover mapping using computer-aided analysis techniques

The column normalizing technique was used to adjust the data for variations in the amplitude of the signal due to look angle effects with respect to solar zenith angle along the scan lines (i.e., across columns). Evaluation of the data set containing the geometric and radiometric adjustments, indicates that the data set should be satisfactory for further processing and analysis. Software was developed for degrading the spatial resolution of the aircraft data to produce a total of four data sets for further analysis. The quality of LANDSAT 2 CCT data for the test site is good for channels four, five, and six. Channel seven was not present on the tape. The data received were reformatted and analysis of the test site area was initiated.

Hoffer, R. M.↗

Procedure 1 and forestland classification using Landsat data

Procedure 1 (P-1) was developed for the Large Area Crop Inventory Experiment (LACIE) and has been used extensively to develop land-use classification of agricultural areas. The P-1 approach requires that pixels (also called dots) of known identity must be located in the study scene. The entire area is clustered and the spectral classes formed are identified using the dots. The analyst need only locate and identify the dots. The rest of the work is done by the computer. The objective of the reported study was to evaluate the effectiveness of P-1's automated approach in a complex forest-land situation. The study site was located in the eastern half of the San Juan National Forest in southwestern Colorado. The study showed that P-1 performed as well as the Multicluster Blocks approach on the rugged study area.

Nelson, R. F.↗

Evaluation of SLAR and thematic mapper MSS data for forest cover mapping using computer-aided analysis techniques

The spatial characteristics of the data were evaluated. A program was developed to reduce the spatial distortions resulting from variable viewing distance, and geometrically adjusted data sets were generated. The potential need for some level of radiometric adjustment was evidenced by an along track band of high reflectance across different cover types in the Varian imagery. A multiple regression analysis was employed to explore the viewing angle effect on measured reflectance. Areas in the data set which appeared to have no across track stratification of cover type were identified. A program was developed which computed the average reflectance by column for each channel, over all of the scan lines in the designated areas. A regression analysis was then run using the first, second, and third degree polynomials, for each channel. An atmospheric effect as a component of the viewing angle source of variance is discussed. Cover type maps were completed and training and test field selection was initiated.

Hoffer, R. M.↗

Evaluation of SLAR and thematic mapper MSS data for forest cover mapping using computer-aided analysis techniques

A literature review on radar and spectral band information was conducted and a NC-130 mission was flown carrying the NS001 scanner system which basically corresponds to the channel configuration of the proposed thematic mapper. Aerial photography and other reference data were obtained for the study site, an area approximately 290 sq miles in north central South Carolina. A cover type map was prepared and methods were devised for reformatting and geometrically correcting MSS CRT data. Arrangements were made to obtain LANDSAT data for dates approximating the NC-130 mission. Because of the waveband employed to obtain SEASAT radar data, it was decided to determine if X-band (2.40 cm to 3.75 cm wavelength) imagery is available.

Hoffer, R. M.↗

Machine processing of Landsat MSS data and DMA topographic data for forest cover type mapping

A study with the objective of developing and testing techniques which utilize both digital topographic data and Landsat MSS spectral data to map forest cover types is examined. Emphasis is given to the topographic distribution model (TDM), which combines point-by-point information about forest species, elevation, slope, and aspect to quantitatively describe topographic positions. Results show the stratified random sample approach to be very effective for developing the TDM, while the use of topographic data significantly improved the overall classification accuracy of forest cover types as compared to using spectral data alone.

Fleming, M. D.↗

Applications of active microwave imagery

The following topics were discussed in reference to active microwave applications: (1) Use of imaging radar to improve the data collection/analysis process; (2) Data collection tasks for radar that other systems will not perform; (3) Data reduction concepts; and (4) System and vehicle parameters: aircraft and spacecraft.

Weber, F. P.↗

Agricultural scene understanding

The author has identified the following significant results. The LACIE field measurement data were radiometrically calibrated. Calibration enabled valid comparisons of measurements from different dates, sensors, and/or locations. Thermal band canopy results included: (1) Wind velocity had a significant influence on the overhead radiance temperature and the effect was quantized. Biomass and soil temperatures, temperature gradient, and canopy geometry were altered. (2) Temperature gradient was a function of wind velocity. (3) Temperature gradient of the wheat canopy was relatively constant during the day. (4) The laser technique provided good quality geometric characterization.

Landgrebe, D. A.↗

Bolivian satellite technology program on ERTS natural resources

The author has identified the following significant results. Application of digital classification for mapping land use permitted the separation of units at more specific levels in less time. A correct classification of data in the computer has a positive effect on the accuracy of the final products. Land use unit comparison with types of soils as represented by the colors of the coded map showed a class relation. Soil types in relation to land cover and land use demonstrated that vegetation was a positive factor in soils classification. Groupings of image resolution elements (pixels) permit studies of land use at different levels, thereby forming parameters for the classification of soils.

Brockmann, H. C.↗

Multiple resource evaluation of region 2 US forest service lands utilizing LANDSAT MSS data

The author has identified the following significant results. LANDSAT MSS imagery provided an excellent overview which put a geomorphic study into a regional perspective, using scale 1:250,000 or smaller. It was used for deriving a data base for land use planning for southern San Juan Mountains. Stereo pairing of adjacent images was the best method for all geomorphic mapping. Combining this with snow enhancement, seasonal enhancement, and reversal aided in interpretation of geomorphic features. Drainage patterns were mapped in much greater detail from LANDSAT than from a two deg quadrangle base.

Krebs, P. V.↗

Computer-aided analysis of Skylab multispectral scanner data in mountainous terrain for land use, forestry, water resource, and geologic applications

The author has identified the following significant results. One of the most significant results of this Skylab research involved the geometric correction and overlay of the Skylab multispectral scanner data with the LANDSAT multispectral scanner data, and also with a set of topographic data, including elevation, slope, and aspect. The Skylab S192 multispectral scanner data had distinct differences in noise level of the data in the various wavelength bands. Results of the temporal evaluation of the SL-2 and SL-3 photography were found to be particularly important for proper interpretation of the computer-aided analysis of the SL-2 and SL-3 multispectral scanner data. There was a quality problem involving the ringing effect introduced by digital filtering. The modified clustering technique was found valuable when working with multispectral scanner data involving many wavelength bands and covering large geographic areas. Analysis of the SL-2 scanner data involved classification of major cover types and also forest cover types. Comparison of the results obtained wth Skylab MSS data and LANDSAT MSS data indicated that the improved spectral resolution of the Skylab scanner system enabled a higher classification accuracy to be obtained for forest cover types, although the classification performance for major cover types was not significantly different.

Hoffer, R. M.↗