A new estimation technique for high-resolution bathmetry

A new technique for depth estimation in airborne laser bathymetry is proposed. The technique involves the transmission of a nonlinear frequency-modulated signal, the detection of the signal reflected by the ocean, and its processing using an appropriate matched filter. On the basis of this technique, a new airborne laser bathymeter could be designed that would offer improved resolution between the signal components reflected by the surface and bottom of the ocean, which would translate into improved accuracy of depth measurement. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.