Statistical estimation of systematic errors at intersections of lines of aeromagnetic survey data

Aeromagnetic survey data is in error due to diurnal variations, navigational inaccuracies, and instrumental drift. There is a corresponding discrepancy between the readings at the point of intersection between any two lines. The main problem in correction procedures is how to prorate this discrepancy between the two lines. We formulate this as a problem in statistical estimation and find all solutions under the assumption that the systematic errors are varying slowly along a line of data. From this class of solutions we select as “Optimal” the one that results in least adjustment of the data. The resulting algorithm leads to a simple and efficient computer program.