High-resolution Digital Terrain Models Research Articles

Generative 3D Reconstruction of Martian Surfaces using Monocular Images

Abstract. High-resolution digital terrain models (DEM) are crucial for Mars scientific exploration and engineering demands, such as mission route planning, landing site selection, and topography research. However, DEMs generated based on photogrammetry or photometry suffer from limited stereo coverage and complex generative processes. Therefore, we propose a GAN-based monocular 3D reconstruction method, which utilizes high-resolution monocular orbital images to achieve pixel-level Martian terrain reconstruction. We preprocess the image data and then invert the elevation using the trained generative model. Finally, we recover the absolute scale through post-processing. In this work, we use HiRISE orthorectified images and DEMs with a resolution of 2 m and 0.25 m to validate the effectiveness of our method. We evaluated our method in four areas with different landforms and found that the predicted DEM and HiRISE DEM have height consistency with the root mean square error of about 2 m. This indicates that the proposed GAN-based method has certain effectiveness and generalization and great potential in high-resolution monocular Martian DEM reconstruction.

Sub‐Milankovitch Signals in the Northern Polar Layered Deposits of Mars

AbstractOur understanding of the paleoclimate of Mars and the dominant forcing functions that drive large‐scale changes largely remains a mystery. However, the Martian Polar Layered Deposits (PLD) offer a promising avenue for unraveling the planet's recent paleoclimate history. Despite recent progress to detect a climate signal in the PLD, definitive evidence of a correlation between the stratigraphic record and Mars' recent orbital history remains elusive. We utilized new and updated techniques, including high‐resolution stratigraphic reconstruction from High Resolution Imagine Science Experiment stereo imagery and digital terrain models, combined with a technique of variable dip correction to account for three dimensional bedding orientations. Signal processing methods, such as wavelet and Fourier analysis, were applied to perform detailed time‐series analysis. These analyses revealed a quasi‐periodic signal indicative of fine bedding at a scale of approximately 2 m. Based on previously proposed deposition rates, these fine layers appear to correspond to timescales centering around 4,000 years. This suggests that the meter‐scale layers may not be the result of orbital forcing and hint at an unknown sub‐Milankovitch climate forcing mechanism. We discuss potential exogenic causal mechanisms, such as cyclic variations in solar activity, and endogenic factors, including large‐scale changes in dust distribution. Understanding the formation processes of these fine layers may significantly enhance our knowledge of Martian climate history and its driving forces.

Integrating geodiversity in animal spatial ecology: microhabitat selection of Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) and European wildcat (Felis silvestris) in a karst landscape

Geodiversity, encompassing various geophysical elements, can have an important impact on species distribution and affect animal behaviour patterns. Although many wild felids are attracted to rugged terrain and conspicuous relief features, most previous research was limited to general topographical characteristics (e.g., slope or terrain ruggedness) and rarely considered the effects of specific microhabitat characteristics. This gap is primarily due to the limited availability of high-resolution digital terrain models (DTMs) and relief features data at larger scales. However, LiDAR DTMs can be used in combination with various automatic methods to detect relief features, enabling non-contact and accurate mapping of large, remote and densely-forested areas. Here, we investigated the selection patterns of various karstic relief features, as well as topographic, anthropogenic and vegetation characteristics, by two sympatric felids, the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) and the European wildcat (Felis silvestris), in the Dinaric Mountains, Slovenia. We used LiDAR DTM to calculate topographic characteristics and detect karst relief features based on automatic methods. We compared the selection of these features between the GPS-collared lynx and wildcats under a use-availability approach. We also investigated the differences in the selection of these features by lynx based on their origin and experience (remnant vs. translocated and naive vs. experienced, respectively). We observed significant impact of relief features on space use by both felids and detected distinct selection patterns between the two species. Lynx selected rugged terrain and proximity of caves, cliffs, karst depressions, ridges, small rocky outcrops, and roads, but avoided human settlements and forest edges. Wildcats selected areas with lower surface slope, closer to main roads, forest edges, caves and ridges, but avoided cliffs, forest roads and human settlements. We observed stronger selection/avoidance patterns among the translocated compared to the remnant lynx, while the differences in experience levels were less important. Our study demonstrates the potential of integrating remote sensing techniques and information on geodiversity into the study of animal spatial ecology. Furthermore, our results indicate that specific relief features provide important abiotic microhabitats for felids and may influence habitat segregation between sympatric species. Our findings provide further evidence for the importance of geodiversity conservation and the need to incorporate abiotic microhabitat features in wildlife habitat selection studies.

Impact structures on Mercury from MESSENGER data: Implications on their formation processes and crustal structure

In this study high-resolution stereo images and Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) from MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) mission were utilized to detect impact structures in regions not covered by Mercury’s Laser Altimeter (MLA), while gravitational data was utilized as a supported data set. We have established an inventory of 314 impact structures ≥150 km, classified on their morphological and gravitational characteristics. 24 basins ≥300 km have been newly discovered. Additionally, we have identified significant surface modifications in impact structures of smooth material infill, which can be either impact-induced or volcanic in origin. The Bouguer anomaly and crustal thinning in the center are displaying an interplay of predominant change of crustal structure in impact basins. Further, this study reveals a common impact history of Mercury and the Moon. Nevertheless, cumulative density distributions suggest the possibility of either a divergence in impactor populations responsible for forming large basins on both celestial bodies or a significant shift in impactor rates. This work holds important implications not only for understanding impact structure formation and evolution processes but also for interpreting the crustal structure. It presents an updated and expanded catalog of impact structures on Mercury, encompassing buried basins, and identifies new areas of interest, potentially serving as target sites for the forthcoming BepiColombo mission.

Insights from a topo-bathymetric and oceanographic dataset for coastal flooding studies: the French Flooding Prevention Action Program of Saint-Malo

Abstract. The French Flooding Prevention Action Program of Saint-Malo, France, requires the assessment of coastal flooding risks and the development of a local flood warning system. The first prerequisite is knowledge of the topography and bathymetry of the bay of Saint-Malo; the acquisition of new multibeam bathymetric data was performed in 2018 and 2019 to increase the resolution of the existing topo-bathymetric datasets and to produce two high-resolution (20 and 5 m) topo-bathymetric digital terrain models. Second, the hydrodynamics associated with coastal flooding were investigated through a dense and extensive oceanographic field experiment conducted during winter 2018–2019 using a network of 22 moorings with 37 sensors: the network included 2 directional buoys, 2 pressure tide gauges, 18 wave pressure gauges, 4 single-point current meters, 7 current profilers, and 4 acoustic wave current profilers from mid-depth (25 m) up to the upper beach and the dike system. The oceanographic dataset thus provides an extended overview of the hydrodynamics and wave processes in the bay of Saint-Malo from the coast up to over-flooding and over-topping areas. This dataset helps to identify the physical drivers of the coastal flooding and provides a quantification of their respective contributions. In particular, the wave processes at the foot of the protection structures can be observed: in this macro-tidal environment, during high spring tides, short and infragravity waves propagate up to the protection structures, while the wave set-up remains negligible, and over-topping by sea packs can occur. The combination of high-resolution topo-bathymetric and oceanographic datasets allows the construction, calibration and validation of a wave and hydrodynamic coupled model that is used to investigate flooding processes more deeply and might be integrated into a future local warning system by means of Saint-Malo inter-communality. The topo-bathymetric and oceanographic datasets are available freely at https://doi.org/10.17183/MNT_COTIER_GNB_PAPI_SM_20m_WGS84, https://doi.org/10.17183/MNT_COTIER_PORT_SM_PAPI_SM_5m_WGS84 and https://doi.org/10.17183/CAMPAGNE_OCEANO_STMALO (Shom, 2020a, b, 2021).

Geomorphic changes after the 2021 Central European flood in the Ahr Valley by LiDAR-based differences

BackgroundIn July 2021, destructive floods in Western Europe were triggered by enormous precipitation rates related to a low-pressure system named "Bernd." These catastrophic events led not only to major damage to infrastructure, severe economic losses, and the loss of lives but also to significant landscape changes and modifications. Here, we focus, as a case study, on the flood aftermath of the Ahr Valley in Rhineland-Palatinate state in western Germany, as it was one of the most affected and destroyed regions by the flood. We utilize high-resolution Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) based on airborne Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) that were taken shortly before and after the flood to investigate insights into geomorphic changes. ResultsBy calculating Digital Terrain Models of Difference (DoD), we are able to quantify volumetric and areal changes caused by erosional and depositional processes for different sites in the Ahr Valley. Due to the morphology of the narrow Ahr Valley, most of the erosion and deposition is located within the deeply incised canyon of the Ahr River. The comprehensive analysis reveals notable morphological modifications throughout the study area, with a calculated erosion/deposition areal ratio of 0.46 and an erosion/deposition volumetric ratio of 0.63. Our findings indicate massive deposition regarding both areal and volumetric. We selected six different locations along the Ahr Valley that showcase distinct aspects of flood-induced fluvial morpho-dynamics. Deposition occurred mainly in point bars and downstream of destroyed artificial levees, in a braided river style.ConclusionOur investigations contribute to an overview and assessment of the morphological response to the destructive flood in the Ahr Valley. The results emphasize the necessity for implementing effective flood management strategies, as most of the urban areas in the Ahr Valley were flooded. Moreover, our results provide valuable insights into the impacted areas, highlighting vulnerable locations for flood-related erosion and deposition. This information could contribute to future mitigation and protection efforts, aiding in the development of comprehensive strategies to minimize the impact of similar events in the future.

The unsuPervised shAllow laNdslide rapiD mApping: PANDA method applied to severe rainfalls in northeastern appenine (Italy)

Shallow landslides, frequently triggered by extreme events such as heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or earthquakes, affect vast areas with remarkable density. In the immediate aftermath of such events, it becomes crucial to rapidly assess landslides distribution and pinpoint the most severely affected areas to prioritize damage assessments and guide field survey operations effectively. Once the emergency phase subsides, the attention can shift to enhancing the accuracy of landslide inventory. In this work, we introduce the two-phase methodology “PANDA”, the unsuPervised shAllow laNdslide rapiD mApping, for the low-cost mapping of the potential landslides, firstly in the emergency phase and then, with an improved version, in the post-emergency one. This approach utilizes variations in NDVI derived from Sentinel-2 satellite imagery and geomorphological filters. We applied PANDA to rainfall events in the northeastern Apennine range, Italy, occurred in May 2023, causing dramatic social and economic consequences for this mountain territory. Within just five days of obtaining Sentinel-2 post-event imagery, we produced a reliable, ready-to-use map covering a vast area (∼4000 km2). The map tested during emergency field mapping shows positive feedback. In the post-emergency phase, accuracy was enhanced using completely cloud-free imagery, a filter to identify false positives associated with land use changes, a higher resolution digital terrain model (DTM), and an iterative approach to optimize NDVI and slope thresholds. Potential landslide density related with rainfall, indicating that the most severely affected region attained a density of approximately 50 landslides/km2. Validation against an independent manual inventory based on high-resolution imagery demonstrated encouraging accuracy results from both inventories, with a noticeable increase in the F1 score for the post-emergency version.

Simulating cable corridors based on terrestrial LiDAR data

This article introduces a new basis for optimising cable corridor layouts in timber extraction on steep terrain by using a digital twin of a forest. Traditional approaches for generating cable corridor layouts rely on less accurate contour maps, which can lead to layouts which rely on infeasible supports, undermining confidence in the generated layouts. We present a detailed simulational approach which uses high-resolution tree maps and digital terrain models to compute realistic representations of all possible cable corridors in a given terrain. We applied established methods in forestry to compute feasible cable corridors in a designated area, including rope deflection, determining sufficient tree anchors and placing intermediate supports where necessary. The proposed individual cable corridor trajectories form the foundation for an optimised overall layout that enables a reduction of installation and operation costs and promotes sustainable timber extraction practices on steep terrain. As a next step we aim to mathematically optimise the layout of feasible cable corridors based on multiple criteria (cost, ergonomic aspects, ecological aspects), and integrate the results into an user-friendly workflow.

The Dunes of Belvedere–San Marco of Aquileia: Integrating High-Resolution Digital Terrain Models and Multispectral Images with Ground-Penetrating Radar Survey to Map the Largest System of Continental Dunes of Northern Italy

The interpretation of high-resolution remote-sensed data (i.e., LiDAR-derived DTMs, aerial photos and satellite images), compared with ground-penetrating radar surveys, historical cartography, geomorphological surveys and stratigraphic data, allowed us to map a large system of dunes near the Grado-Marano Lagoon (NE Italy) and reconstruct its evolution. Remote sensing investigations allowed us to recognize, map and interpret the sandy reliefs as a field of continental aeolian landforms extending for over 15 km2 and consisting of parabolic dunes elongated in the WSW direction. Radar soundings, together with the description of stratigraphic sections and cores, documented the internal clinostratification of the dunes, supporting their aeolian origin. Radiocarbon dating documents that the dunes formed 22 ka ago, at the end of the Last Glacial Maximum, and probably evolved until the first part of the Late Glacial, when vegetation was scarce. The landforms were fed by the sands blown from a paleochannel of Isonzo River flowing eastward of the dune’s field and blown by Bora. This is a very strong katabatic wind, still characterizing the area, but that was likely much stronger during last glaciation, when it was probably sustained by a stronger wind pattern in Central Europe.

LiDAR-Based Morphometry of Dolines in Aggtelek Karst (Hungary) and Slovak Karst (Slovakia)

LiDAR-based digital terrain models (DTMs) represent an advance in the investigation of small-scale geomorphological features, including dolines of karst terrains. Important issues in doline morphometry are (i) which statistical distributions best model the size distribution of doline morphometric parameters and (ii) how to characterize the volume of dolines based on high-resolution DTMs. For backward compatibility, how previous datasets obtained predominantly from topographic maps relate to doline data derived from LiDAR is also examined. Our study area includes the karst plateaus of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst national parks, whose caves are part of the UNESCO World Heritage. To characterize the study area, the relationships between doline parameters and topography were studied, as well as their geological characteristics. Our analysis revealed that the LiDAR-based doline density is 25% higher than the value calculated from topographic maps. Furthermore, LiDAR-based doline delineations are slightly larger and less rounded than in the case of topographic maps. The plateaus of the study area are characterized by low (5–10 km−2), moderate (10–30 km−2), and medium (30–35 km−2) doline densities. In terms of topography, the slope trend is decisive since the doline density is negligible in areas where the general slope is steeper than 12°. As for the lithology, 75% of the dolines can be linked to Wetterstein Limestone. The statistical distribution of the doline area can be well modeled by the lognormal distribution. To describe the DTM-based volume of dolines, a new parameter (k) is introduced to characterize their 3D shape: it is equal to the product of the area and the depth divided by the volume. This parameter indicates whether the idealized shape of the doline is closer to a cylinder, a bowl (calotte), a cone, or a funnel shape. The results show that most sinkholes in the study area have a transitional shape between a bowl (calotte) and a cone.

Generation of a Digital Terrain Model (DTM) Fusioning WV-2 Images and RTK-derived Topobathymetric Data

Digital terrain models (DTMs) are digital elevation models (DEMs) that represent the bare ground surface. They are created by multiple sources, including satellite remote sensing, aerial photography, and ground-based surveys, and are often combined with other data sources to create highly detailed models. As the demand for accurate and detailed information about the Earth's surface continues to grow, DTMs have become an increasingly important tool for researchers in different fields. This study aims to create a DTM with a spatial resolution of 0.50 m for São Caetano do Sul, São Paulo, Brazil, integrated with a topobathymetric map of three water courses running along the borders of the study area. For the conventional DTM generation, a WV-2 stereo pair was used. A total of 55 ground control points (GCPs) were collected using the GNSS-RTK method, being 60% used for model building and 40% employed for validation. The topobathymetric survey was accomplished using a GNSS-RTK device placed along the analyzed open streams. For validation purposes, we used bias and MAE metrics. Overall, the methodology presented in this article provides a useful approach for generating high-resolution DTMs that can be used in a range of applications, especially in urban hydrodynamic studies.

Increased Hg Methylation Risks in Management-Induced Terrain Depressions in Forests with Organic-Matter-Rich Soils

Mercury (Hg) is a toxic contaminant that bioaccumulates in trophic chains in its organic form—methylmercury (MeHg). Hg methylation is driven by microorganisms in favourable conditions, stagnant water pools being among potential methylation hotspots. In the present study, we estimated the total Hg and MeHg concentrations in the sediments of water-filled management-induced terrain depressions (ruts, mounding pits and a partly functional drainage ditch) and in nearby undisturbed soil in six hemiboreal forest sites with organic-matter-rich soils in Latvia. Environmental samples were taken in the spring, summer and autumn of 2022. Furthermore, we evaluated the risks of element leaching from the depressions using high-resolution digital terrain models (DTM) and meteorological data. The results suggested a possible leaching of Hg in the past as THg concentrations in the sediments of the depressions were significantly lower than in the surrounding soil. Furthermore, significantly higher MeHg and %MeHg concentrations were found in the sediments than in the surrounding soil identifying the management-induced depressions as Hg methylation hotspots. Spatial analysis of the DTMs pointed to a very likely periodical leaching of elements from the depressions during high precipitation episodes as well as during snowmelts. Moreover, it was observed that ruts left by heavy machinery often channel surface runoff.

Soil water storage capacity and soil nutrients drive tree ring growth of six European tree species across a steep environmental gradient

Tree growth depends on tree-intrinsic attributes, synecological interactions, atmospheric conditions and soil properties. While the influence of tree factors and climate are analysed in detail in many studies, the effect of soil properties is less investigated and compensatory soil effects are often not quantified. In this study, we use a comprehensive dataset of 1659 tree increment cores from six common Central European tree species (Abies alba, Fagus sylvatica, Larix decidua, Picea abies, Pinus sylvestris, Quercus spp.) sampled at 1562 locations across large environmental gradients in the Eastern Alps. Soil data was available from an extensive soil survey including soil pits, laboratory analysis and the application of pedotransfer-functions. Up to three main tree species per site were sampled and the tree ring widths were dendrochronologically measured and synchronized. Topographic information from a high-resolution Digital Terrain Model, high-resolution climate data and biometric measures were available at each site. To determine the influence of soil water storage capacity and soil nutrient status, we used generalized additive models to expand standard models of well-known drivers of tree growth, including age, climatic water balance and temperature. For the time span of 38 years from 1981 until 2018, we found species-specific impacts of soil properties on tree ring growth. Specifically, soil water storage acted as a buffer to overcome drought periods, in particular for deep rooting tree species like Quercus spp. and Abies alba. In addition, we found species-specific growth reactions to soil nutrient status for nutrient-demanding species likes Fagus sylvatica but no effects for less demanding tree species like Pinus sylvestris. Our results show the magnitude of the effects of soil properties in relation to other growth factors on radial growth of six Central European tree species. Therefore, we posit that, while age and climate do have a stronger influence on tree growth, it is important to consider soil as a growth factor, particularly at the distribution margins along climatic gradients.

The High-Resolution Calibration of the Topographic Wetness Index Using PAZ Satellite Radar Data to Determine the Optimal Positions for the Placement of Smart Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in Urban Environments

This study addresses the growing interest in utilizing remote sensing tools for locating sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in urban environments. SuDS, recognized as Nature-based Solutions (NbS), play a crucial role in enhancing urban resilience against climate change. This study focuses on the calibration process required to establish a correlation between the Topographic Wetness Index (TWI), derived from high-precision digital elevation models (DEMs), and soil moisture (SM) data obtained from satellite imaging. This calibration serves as a method to optimize the placement of sustainable urban drainage system vegetated techniques in urban areas. This study leveraged the exceptional resolution of PAZ satellite radar data to effectively detect variations in SM, particularly in grass-type vegetated land. The sensitivity of the X-band radar signal to moisture levels and changes in ground roughness proved valuable in tracking SM dynamics. The core of the study involved deriving the TWI from a high-resolution digital terrain model (DTM). The correlation between the TWI and SM values demonstrates robustness, with an R2 value of 0.77. These findings significantly advance the calibration of TWI values with SM measurements, enhancing their practicality in identifying areas prone to water accumulation. The study’s outcomes provide valuable insights for guiding the strategic placement of SuDS in urban environments, contributing to the effective management of water-related challenges in the face of urbanization and climate change.

Vertical vs. Horizontal Fractal Dimensions of Roads in Relation to Relief Characteristics

This paper investigated the surface length of roads from both horizontal and vertical perspectives using the theory of fractal dimension of surfaces and curves. Three progressive experiments were conducted. The first demonstrated the magnitude of the differences between the planar road length and the DTM-derived surface road length and assessed its correlation with the DTM-calculated road slope. The second investigated the road distance complexity through the fractal dimension in both planar and vertical dimensions. The third related the vertical with the horizontal fractal dimension of roads across a range of distinct physiographic regions. The study contributed theoretically by linking the planimetric complexity to vertical complexity, with clear applications for advanced transportation studies and network analyses. The core methodology used geographic information systems (GIS) to integrate a high resolution (1 × 1 m) digital terrain model (DTM) with a road network layer. A novel concept, the vertical fractal dimension of roads was introduced. Both the vertical and horizontal fractal dimensions of the roads were calculated using the box-counting methodology. We conducted an investigation into the relationship between the two fractal dimensions using fourteen study areas within four distinct physiographic regions across Slovenia. We found that the average slope of a three-dimensional (3D) road was directly related to the length difference between 3D and two-dimensional (2D) roads. The calculated values for the vertical fractal dimension in the study areas were only slightly above 1, while the maximum horizontal fractal dimension of 1.1837 reflected the more sinuous properties of the road in plan. Variations in the vertical and horizontal fractal dimensions of the roads varied between the different physiographic regions.

The SAVEMEDCOASTS-2 webGIS: The Online Platform for Relative Sea Level Rise and Storm Surge Scenarios up to 2100 for the Mediterranean Coasts

Here we show the SAVEMEDCOASTS-2 web-based geographic information system (webGIS) that supports land planners and decision makers in considering the ongoing impacts of Relative Sea Level Rise (RSLR) when formulating and prioritizing climate-resilient adaptive pathways for the Mediterranean coasts. The webGIS was developed within the framework of the SAVEMEDCOASTS and SAVEMEDCOASTS-2 projects, funded by the European Union, which respond to the need to protect people and assets from natural disasters along the Mediterranean coasts that are vulnerable to the combined effects of Sea Level Rise (SLR) and Vertical Land Movements (VLM). The geospatial data include available or new high-resolution Digital Terrain Models (DTM), bathymetric data, rates of VLM, and multi-temporal coastal flooding scenarios for 2030, 2050, and 2100 with respect to 2021, as a consequence of RSLR. The scenarios are derived from the 5th Assessment Report (AR5) provided by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and encompass different Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP2.6 and RCP8.5) for climate projections. The webGIS reports RSLR scenarios that incorporate the temporary contribution of both the highest astronomical tides (HAT) and storm surges (SS), which intensify risks to the coastal infrastructure, local community, and environment.

Surface fractures generated during the 2021 Reykjanes oblique rifting event (SW Iceland)

We use a comprehensive dataset of field observations, high spatial resolution drone orthomosaics and digital terrain models (DTMs) to map, quantify and characterize the extensive ground fracturing related to the 2021 seismo-tectonic and volcanic activity in the Reykjanes Peninsula (Iceland). The dataset, spans an area of about 30 km^2, where we map nearly 20 000 ground cracks with metric to decametric lengths and centimetric extensional offsets, revealing a dominant dextral shear, in agreement with published seismic data. Although striking in a direction similar to the volcanic systems in the Reykjanes Peninsula (N030–040), most fractures appear as en-échelon structures globally aligned along N-S-striking fault zones up to 3–4 km long. By examining the timing of ground fracturing through repeated field observations, seismic data and InSAR images, we associate a fracture zone with most earthquakes of M_omega ge 5.0 that occurred in the month preceding the March 2021 Fagradalsfjall eruption. We describe three preexisting N-S fault zones, with fault segments that were reactivated up to three times during the pre-eruptive seismic activity, while the magma intrusion did not trigger graben-related ground fractures typically observed during magmatic injections. Our depiction of a system dominated by strike-slip tectonic features helps in understanding the geometry and bookshelf-mode of tectonic activity along a diffuse and highly oblique extensional plate boundary. Evidence of transient fracturing is typically quickly lost because of erosion or lava flow burial, highlighting a potential under-representation of diffuse fracturing when studying old tectonic and volcanic systems.

Relative Sea-Level Rise Projections and Flooding Scenarios for 2150 CE for the Island of Ustica (Southern Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy)

The island of Ustica (Italy) is constantly exposed to the effects of sea-level rise, which is threatening its coastal zone. With the aim of assessing the sea levels that are anticipated by 2150 CE under the climatic projections shown in the AR6 report from the IPCC, a detailed evaluation of potential coastal flooding under different climatic scenarios and the ongoing land subsidence has been carried out for three coastal zones. Scenarios are based on the determination of the current coastline position, a high-resolution digital terrain and marine model, and the SSP1-2.6, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5 climatic projections. Relative sea-level rise projections allowed the mapping of the potential inundated surfaces for 2030, 2050, 2100, and 2150. The results show rising sea levels for 2150, ranging from a minimum of 66 ± 40 cm (IPCC AR6 SSP2.6 scenario) to a maximum of 128 ± 52 cm (IPCC AR6 SSP8.5 scenario). In such conditions, considering the SSP8.5 scenario during storm surges with return times (RTs) of 1 and 100 years, the expected maximum wave run-up along the island may vary from 3 m (RT = 1) to 14 m (RT = 100), according to the coastal morphology. Our results show that adaptation and mitigation actions are required to protect the touristic and harbor installations of the island.

Extraction and classification of channels from LiDAR in plains by channel tracking

Accurate and detailed maps of irrigation and drainage networks in plains are imperative for efficient water management. Conducting field surveys of these networks proves to be expensive and labor-intensive. Besides, manual extraction of this information from remote sensing data lacks the necessary speed and accuracy. While LiDAR data offers highly detailed insights into terrain morphology, extracting water channels from it is not a straightforward task. The commonly employed slope-based algorithms, primarily reliant on elevation gradients, falter in plains due to minimal height variations such as local depressions or sinks, which can lead to misinterpretations. The primary goal of this study is to automate the extraction of the network using high-resolution Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) derived from LiDAR. Though the number of parameters is limited, users have the flexibility to finely adjust hydrologically relevant and intuitive parameters based on their specific channel preferences. The algorithm commences with a curvature analysis of the surface. Random seed points are strategically chosen from locations where the local curvature is categorized as ‘valley.’ A cross-section of the DTM is then extracted aligned with the direction of maximum curvature. The section's morphology is thoroughly evaluated to determine its validity as a water channel section. If deemed valid, points on both sides of the thalweg point along the zero-curvature direction undergo testing. The channel is traced in both directions, as long as the cross-sections maintain their validity. Upon the cessation of tracking, new hypotheses are examined until all ‘valley’ type points have been exhausted. The study demonstrates that the algorithm can also calculate channel capacity or perform channel classification using the acquired channel thalweg points and cross-sections. To validate the algorithm's effectiveness, tests are conducted across three distinct areas within the Bergama Plain in Turkey. Manual markings establish the ground truth for the channels. The precision and recall values achieve 100%, with the exception of Test Area 2 (77% precision). Additionally, the outcomes surpass those of flow-based algorithm implemented in the same areas. The proposed method proves its utility in plains and remains open to further refinement and development.

Sand & stones: The Pylos Geoarchaeological Program

The five-year research program entitled “Pylos Geoarchaeological Program – GEAPP” began activities in 2021. Among the goals of the Program that stand out are landscape reconstruction, the use of new technological tools for archaeological and environmental research, to inform local authorities about the rich cultural heritage and the special ecosystem, while contributing to the balanced and sustainable development of the area in collaboration with all the environmental, tourism, cultural, productivity organizations locally involved.During the extensive survey on the west coast of Messenia, in the Pylia area, on the Almyrolakka beach, a segment from what seems to be a wall structure is visible within the sand dunes. Photogrammetric survey of the “wall” was undertaken during the survey of the area, on three different occasions between a 12-month period from July 2021 – October 2022. The continuous monitoring of the structural remains offered a unique view of the rock formation’s increased exposure over time.Using an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), a high accuracy GNSS receiver and Total Station the formation was documented over three survey phases while being closely monitored during the 2022 rescue excavation of the remains. Digital documentation includes aerial survey, digitization of findings via photogrammetry and 3D modelling, photogrammetric documentation of the excavation stratigraphy etc.The low altitude, detailed documentation produced a high-resolution orthophoto and digital terrain model, useful in different applications. Stratigraphy sections from the photogrammetric processing were used to create a comparative scaled model of the changes through the 12-month period. Additionally, for documentation and testing purposes a 3D model of the wall remains, for each survey period, was generated. For representation purposes, a final model from the closing of the rescue excavation was recreated digitally.