High resolution topographic model of panarea island by fusion of photogrammetric, lidar and bathymetric digital terrain models

Abstract

Aerial digital photogrammetry and laser scanning (lidar) and marine multibeam bathymetry can play a fundamental role in the generation of digital terrain models (DTMs) of land and submarine areas, respectively. Integrating these survey techniques is crucial for providing accurate and homogeneous DTMs along narrow coastal zones that often cannot be adequately surveyed owing to logistical limitations on collecting bathymetric data in shallow water. In this project, three aerial photogrammetric surveys, two multibeam bathymetric surveys and a lidar survey were analysed and integrated in the same reference system in order to generate the first 3D high resolution ‘‘digital terrain and marine model’’ (DTMM) of the volcanic island of Panarea (Aeolian Islands, Italy). This is a volcanically active area that underwent a submarine gas eruption in November 2002, and produced impacts on the environment as well as potential hazards for the local population. The DTMM shows the morphological features of this volcanic area with an average grid resolution of 1m and a maximum elevation error of 1 m. This model will significantly improve geophysical and geomorphological studies of this volcanic island and assist in reducing future hazards.