MoreSolid Terrain Modeling (STM), manufacturer of the world's most accurate 3-D solid terrain models, has completed a new model for the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point. The model was purchased for the Geospatial Information Science Program at the USMA.
Dr. John Brockhaus, associate professor and director, Geospatial Information Science Program, USMA, said, "The model was produced from a combination of 30-meter digital elevation model data, acquired from the United States Geological Survey's National Elevation Data set, and IKONOS 4-meter multispectral imagery, acquired from Space Imaging Inc." He said that the model will be used in several courses within the GIS program, as well as military history and military geography courses at the USMA.
Instructors teaching computer cartography plan on using the model as an example of a new and innovative method for three-dimensional visualization of battlespace. The "Introduction to Remote Sensing" course will use the model in discussions regarding the integration of data collected from space-based remote sensing assets with other types of spatial information. The class will also discuss the technology used to produce the model. Students in the "Advanced Remote Sensing" course will use the digital data provided to STM in the development of "Fly Thrus" and virtual tours of the battlefield using ERDAS Imagine. In the military history and military geography courses, the model will be used as a visual aid when analyzing the Battle of Gettysburg.
