3D Surveying and Cultural Heritage

Researchers working at the intersection of geology and cultural heritage are using technologies like photogrammetry, terrestrial laser scanning, and drone-based imaging to build precise three-dimensional models of landscapes, rock formations, and historical sites. By processing overlapping photographs or laser returns into dense point clouds through methods such as Structure from Motion, scientists can document fragile or inaccessible environments with millimeter-scale accuracy and preserve them digitally against erosion, development, or conflict. A central challenge is improving how these models scale—from capturing fine surface texture on a single carved stone to mapping an entire cliff face or archaeological complex—while keeping data acquisition practical in the field. Active work is also focused on automating the interpretation of point clouds so that geologically or culturally significant features can be extracted without exhaustive manual effort.

Works

130,508

Total citations

636,988

Keywords

PhotogrammetryUAVTerrestrial Laser ScanningStructure from MotionGeospatial ApplicationsDigital Heritage