Digital Elevation Model Archives

10 Topographic Maps From Around the World

Topographers face an uphill battle of a changing geography. These are the top 10 topographic maps built to meet the challenge of accuracy and completeness.

What is Topography? The Definitive Guide

Topography lays the underlying foundation of the Earth’s surface. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything about topography and topographic maps.

SRTM Shuttle Radar Topography Mission

During an 11-day mission, Space Shuttle Radar Topography (SRTM) mission captured Earth’s elevation at 1 arc-second (30 meters) for over 80% of the Earth.

What Are Contour Lines on Topographic Maps?

Contour lines have constant values on them such as elevation. But it’s also used in meteorology (isopleth), magnetism (isogon) & even drive-time (isochrones)

A Topographic Profile of Arizona’s Massive Meteor Crater

Topographic profiles are cross-sectional views showing elevation along a line with applications in engineering, hydrology, land use planning and more.

Aspect Maps: How Do You Find Out the Aspect of a Slope?

In the mountains, the terrain slopes are in all directions – east, west, north and south-facing. The compass direction that the slope faces is slope aspect.

5 Free Global DEM Data Sources – Digital Elevation Models

Want to elevate your chances of finding a digital elevation model? Sure you do. You should dive into our list of free global DEM data sources.

DEM, DSM & DTM Differences – A Look at Elevation Models in GIS

We explore the differences between DEM (bare earth), DSM (natural and built environment) and DTM (vector contours and regularly-spaced points).

Vertical Datum – Earth’s Elevation Reference Frame

A vertical datum is a reference surface of zero elevation to which heights are referred to. Datums are used to measure height and depth from mean sea level.

A Complete Guide to LiDAR: Light Detection and Ranging

How would you like to wave your magic wand and find out how far everything is away from you? No magic wands necessary. This is how LiDAR works.