Producing high-quality negatives from ERTS black-and-white transparancies

Abstract

A method has been devised for producing high-quality black-and-white negatives quickly and efficiently from dense transparencies orgininating from Earth Resources Technology Satellite imagery. Transparencies are evaluated on a standard light source to determine exposure and processing information needed for making negatives. A “System ASA Rating” was developed by testing and selecting combinations of film, light sources, and developer. Changes in film density and contrast of negatives owing to reciprocity effects are controlled by calculating adjustments in exposure and development. The method described can be used in relatively small darkrooms without expensive equipment. Its usefulness was demonstrated in a high-altitude photo mission over the Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota.

Citation

Myhre, Richard J. 1973. Producing high-quality negatives from ERTS black-and-white transparancies. Res. Note PSW-RN-287. Berkeley, CA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Forest and Range Experiment Station. 6 p