Using a dynamic ocean surface to perform a geometric calibration of a bathymetric lidar

A geometric calibration of an airborne lidar is an essential component to any bathymetric survey. A poorly-aligned system leads to erroneously reported depths, diminished system resolution and internally inconsistent point clouds. While most calibration procedures depend on the use of cultural features (like gabled roofs), one recently suggested methodology requires only a single broad, flat surface. Given the potential difficulty in identifying such a surface on land, this paper investigates the possibility of using the ocean surface instead. Simulations are performed to examine the anticipated influences of both surface waves and tidal variation. Finally, oceanic results are compared with the likely topographic alternative: using a narrow airport runway as the calibration surface.