Kriging Interpolation

Abstract

Kriging is a geostatistical interpolation technique that considers both the distance and the degree of variation between known data points when estimating values in unknown areas. A kriged estimate is a weighted linear combination of the known sample values around the point to be estimated. Applied properly, Kriging allows the user to derive weights that result in optimal and unbiased estimates. It attempts to minimize the error variance and set the mean of the prediction errors to zero so that there are no overor under-estimates. Included with the Kriging routine is the ability to construct a semivariogram of the data which is used to weight nearby sample points when interpolating. It also provides a means for users to understand and model the directional (e.g., north-south, east-west) trends of their data. A unique feature of Kriging is that it provides an estimation of the error at each interpolated point, providing a measure of confidence in the modeled surface.