Digital Elevation Model Archives

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 Do Contour Lines on a Topographic Map Show?

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.