Comparative analysis of three key atmospheric correction techniques for bathymetric mapping in nearshore areas with Sentinel-2 Data - case study: Kish Island, Persian Gulf
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1590/2675-2824073.24077Keywords:
Satellite derived bathymetry (SDB), Coastal mapping, Remote sensing, Depth estimationAbstract
This study addresses the critical need for accurate bathymetric data in coastal and nearshore zones, which
are essential for ecological balance and resource management. Traditional depth measurement methods
are costly, labor-intensive, and spatially limited, further complicated by environmental factors. Remote sensing
technologies, particularly the Sentinel-2 satellite imagery, offer a promising solution for efficient and extensive
data acquisition. This research evaluates the impact of three atmospheric correction (AC) methods—FLAASH,
Sen2Cor, and ACOLITE—on depth estimation accuracy using Sentinel-2 imagery over Kish Island, a biodiverse
coral reef habitat in the Persian Gulf. Field measurements at 932 points around the island were used to train
and test the performance of the AC methods. An integrated linear and ratio transformation model, utilizing green
and blue bands of Sentinel-2, was applied to derive depth values. Statistical analyses, including the coefficient
of determination (R²), root-mean-square error (RMSE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), indicate
that ACOLITE consistently outperforms the other methods, achieving R² values often exceeding 0.8, the lowest
RMSE values of ~ 1.41 m, and a MAPE of ~ 41.56%. In contrast, Sen2Cor exhibits greater variability, with an
R² of up to 0.78 and an RMSE of up to 1.75 m and MAPE of 47.10%, while FLAASH offers stable but less
precise performance, with R² values ~ 0.74, RMSE ranging from 1.70 m to 1.91 m, and MAPE up to 50.26%.
Thus, ACOLITE emerges as the most accurate and reliable method for atmospheric correction, enhancing the
accuracy of bathymetric data and aiding the conservation and management of coastal environments.
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