Correction of satellite radar altimeter data on ice-covered surfaces in Antarctica using an integrated Geographical Information System

Abstract

The problem of correcting satellite altimeter measurements for errors introduced by topographic surfaces was chosen to test the capabilities of a prototype integrated geographical information system. A system to calculate and apply corrections to altimeter data has been implemented and tested using Geosat data from the Wilkins Ice Shelf, to the west of Alexander Island, West Antarctica. The method used is presented here, with particular discussion of the suitability of the GIS as a platform for performing such corrections.