The application of one-dimensional signal processing techniques for the preprocessing of waveforms obtained in airborne laser bathymetry is investigated. Specifically, a special type of smoothing digital filter is used to remove noise in the waveforms while preserving the information content up to a desired degree. An algorithm, which incorporates a lowpass digital differentiator is then used to detect the bottom reflection. The optimal cutoff frequency of the differentiator is determined on the basis of the spectral content of the bottom reflection. After preprocessing, a waveform-decomposition technique recently described by the authors is used to separate the surface and bottom reflections for sea-depth estimation. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the techniques developed, sea-depth estimates obtained are compared to corresponding estimates obtained by a local surveying company, and a high degree of agreement is observed between the two sets of results. When the resolution between the surface and bottom returns is low, the proposed techniques together with waveform decomposition offer a significant improvement in the sea-depth estimates.
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