How to Get Map Data on Imagine

The spatial-analysis software ERDAS Imagine uses raster images such as satellite photos, elevation maps and aerial photos. Many maps or images come with metadata such as the projection system and units of measurement in separate files that accompany the image file, but when this file is missing, you need to create an .aux file to conduct spatial analysis.

Instructions

1. Orient the upper-left X and Y coordinates by opening the image in a "View" in ERDAS IMAGINE 2010. Right-click on the image name in the "Contents Panel." Select "Layer Info" in the context menu to display the "Image Info." Write down X and Y coordinates, measurement units and projection information.

2. Select "Manage Data" from the ribbon menu, then select "Edit Image Metadata" from the "Image" section to open the "Image Command" utility.

3. Select the file you want to update.

4. Check or tick "Change Map Model," then click "Options."

5. Enter the upper-left X and Y coordinate information. Select the appropriate units and projection and click "OK" to open the "Image Command" window.

6. Set the map projection by checking "Change Map Projection" and clicking "Options", then select the category and projection in the "Map Projection Options" window and click OK. (See References 1)

7. Click "OK" in the "Image Command" window. (See References 1)

Tips & Warnings

• If the X and Y coordinates don't appear in the "Image Info," you can also find them in the header file (.hdr) or the metadata file (.txt). If they also do not appear there, you will need to georeference the coordinates.

References

• Indiana University Information Technology Services: In ERDAS IMAGINE 2010, how do I update map model and projection information?