3D Tactical Mapping for Polar Environments (3D-TMPE)

PixElement, a commercial photogrammetry software small business, and Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, creators ofthe photogrammetric algorithm behind ArcticDEM(SETSM) , propose to jointly develop 3D Tactical Mapping for Polar Environments(3D-TMPE), a solution created for rapid airborne mapping in polar environments by manned and unmanned aircraft to help safeguard Arctic security.In Phase I, we define, design, and optimize the necessary modifications to our existing photogrammetric pipelines to complete3D-TMPE requirements for the Air Force. To successfully detect and match image features over snow and ice surfaces, imageproperties such as radiometric sensitivity, stereo viewing geometry, and surface coverage/type are effectively described andfactored into the photogrammetric pipelines and reporting deliverables. We will build upon our experiences with ArcticDEMproduction and UAS mapping in snow-covered environments to create a UAS photogrammetric mapping solution that is easyto use, powerful, and accurate. We focus on practicality, and draw on the depth of our experience conducting appliedphotogrammetric research in alpine, snow covered, and polar environments.