In this paper

we present an on-orbit geometric calibration method for a ZY-1 02C panchromatic camera in order to i mprove the geometric precision of its images. First

starting from a rigorous geometric imaging model

the source and character of geometric errors are analyzed

and on this basis

the on-orbit geometric calibration model is then set up. Second

the calibration p arameters are partially calculated with an iterative strategy by dividing them into two groups: external and internal calibration p arameters. Finally

base on the model and proposed method

an on-orbit geometric calibration experiment for a ZY-1 02C p anchromatic camera is conducted using the reference data of Songshan Calibration Test Site. The results indicate that the on-orbit geometric calibration model and method are feasible and have high accuracy and reliability

which can significantly improve the positioning accuracy of ZY-1 02C panchromatic images with and without ground control. Moreover

the precision of the internal calibration is better than 0. 3 pixels.