LANDSAT IMAGE MAP PRODUCTION METHODS 
AT THE U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 
Richard D. Kidwell 
U.S. Geological Survey 
526 National Center 
Reston, Virginia 22092 
Douglas R. Binnie 
U.S. Geological Survey 
EROS Data Center 
Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57189 
Sheila Martin 
U.S. Geological Survey 
519 National Center 
Reston, Virginia 22092 
U.S.A. 
ABSTRACT 
To maintain consistently high quality in satellite image map production, 
the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has developed standard technical in- 
structions for all procedures. This paper gives a brief review of current 
procedures for digital processing of Landsat image map data, photographic 
and electronic production of publication-scale halftone image separates, 
and selection of density aimpoints for lithographic platemaking and 
printing. 
For over a decade, the USGS has produced multicolor satellite image maps 
from Landsat imagery. Image map research has progressed from the develop- 
ment of photographic techniques for mosaicking of Landsat scenes, to the 
refinement of computer techniques for large-area mosaicking of Landsat 
digital data and subsequent extraction of up to twelve 1:250,000-scale 
quadrangle areas for lithographic map production. After Landsat scenes 
are acquired and evaluated, they are processed, either photographically or 
digitally, to produce halftone separates for printing. Photographically, 
images of each spectral band are enlarged, registered to a control base at 
publication scale, tone-matched, mosaicked, and exposed through a halftone 
screen. For digitally mosaicked Landsat data in quadrangle format, each 
band is electronically scanned, enlarged, and halftoned using specified 
density aimpoints for lithography. Final-scale image separates are regis- 
tered with line and lettering separates. Color proofs are prepared and 
evaluated against initial press sheets for register, completeness of 
linework, and color balance prior to approval for final printing. 
INTRODUCTION 
The USGS produces multicolor Landsat satellite image maps at the 1:100,000- 
scale and smaller scales. The National Mapping Division (NMD) EROS Data 
Center (EDC) produces 9.5- by 9.5-inch laser beam recorder (LBR) film 
transparency separates from which these publication-scale lithographic 
products are prepared. Satellite image maps can be prepared manually 
  
Publication authorized by the Director, U.S. Geological Survey. 
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