Research News
Video still: DLR/3D Reality Maps/DigitalGlobe
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Virtual Assault on the Summit
Now, everybody can climb to the summit of Mount Everest – virtually. For the first time, experts around Frank Lehmann from the DLR Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics have captured a three-dimensional impression of the highest mountain range of the world by way of optical satellite data and have created an image with a resolution of 50 centimetres. The 3D images originated from a cooperation between the DLR Institute of Robotics and Mechatronics and the two companies "3D RealityMaps" and "DigitalGlobe". By way of a video, those interested now can follow an expedition to the summit of Mount Everest.
Earth Observation Satellite Data Analysed
DigitalGlobe provided the Berlin-based DLR scientists with data from the two optical earth observation satellites WorldView 1 and WorldView 2. The material was augmented by images captured by the German satellite system Rapid Eye. With the help of a software developed by themselves, the DLR scientists have superimposed satellite images taken from different angles of view to calculate the height profiles. They then used a software by RealityMaps to create a 3D model.
Climate Changes Documented
In addition to Mount Everest the DLR experts have also created images of a forested area on Hawaii, several mountain ranges and large cities such as Mexico City and Berlin. "The high resulution allows us to calculate volume changes in glaciers or to assess seasonal changes in the snow coverage, which in turn allows us to draw conclusions as regards potable water reserves and the rate of snow melting", says Lehmann. The height values of the satellite data are calculated accurate to the last pixel and feature 50 centimetres both in height and width. This is the best resolution of a height model that at present can be generated from civil satellite data. For comparison: According to Frank Lehmann, the in part older aerial images featured on Google are based on terrain models with a resolution of only 90 metres; in Europe and North America this is to some extent reduced to 30 metres. Buildings or trees do not appear as individual raised objects.
