Topographic measurement of ice fields:
AIRBORNE 3-D PROFILOMETER


Measurement of the dimensions of inaccessible objects remains a challenge despite the new technologies available. The project approached the problem with a photogrammetric method using laser-camera combination installed in a helicopter. The method was applied to the topographic measurement of ice fields. It became clear that the new method will produce more reliable data on surface height and ice field mass than the previously used spot laser profilometer. The method will be developed with more effective laser and by automation of the construction of profiles.

The 'Airborne 3-D Profilometer, 1994-1995' project was partly a feasibility study to demonstrate the photogrammetric method, and partly an attempt to gather data on the ice fields of the Baltic Sea. It had its background in the earlier work done on photogrammetric methods at Helsinki University of Technology (HUT) and in research on ice fields done at the Finnish Institute of Marine Research (FIMR). The project was funded by the Technology Development Centre (TEKES) and the cooperative organizations. The chairman of the steering group for the project was Program Manager Håkan Sandell from TEKES. The members were Professor Henrik Haggrén from Helsinki University of Technology, Professor Väinö Kelhä from VTT Automation and Professor Jouko Launiainen from the Finnish Institute of Marine Research. In the project group Mr. Markku Rantasuo was responsible for the field equipment, Mr. Petteri Pöntinen for rectification of the collected data, and Mrs. Terhikki Manninen and Mr. Ilkka Peräläinen for analysis of the results. Mr. Jukka Pesonen took care of the project management and compiled the publication.

| Example of an airborne video image of a projected laser profile |

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