COURSE OVERVIEW:

Terrain analysis and the application of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) serve as fundamental tools for understanding the surface expression of geological processes and providing critical spatial data for geoscience projects. This course explores the acquisition, processing, and interpretation of topographic data to characterize landforms and subsurface influences. By utilizing high-resolution elevation datasets, geoscientists can identify subtle structural features, map geomorphological hazards, and provide accurate topographic constraints for environmental and engineering applications.

The scope of this course covers the technical distinctions between Digital Surface Models (DSMs) and Digital Terrain Models (DTMs). Participants will learn to manipulate various data sources, including LiDAR, satellite interferometry (InSAR), and photogrammetric datasets, to extract meaningful geological information. The curriculum emphasizes the calculation of primary and secondary topographic attributes—such as slope, aspect, curvature, and drainage density—to automate the mapping of geological boundaries and terrain units.

Coverage includes the integration of terrain analysis with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) for hydrological modeling and site suitability studies. The course details how surface topography reflects underlying structural controls, such as fault scarps and fold geometries, allowing for a more comprehensive remote sensing-based geological interpretation. By mastering these techniques, professionals can improve the accuracy of field surveys, manage natural resources more effectively, and provide robust spatial frameworks for infrastructure and exploration planning.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Explain the differences between Digital Elevation Models (DEM), DSM, and DTM.
• Evaluate the accuracy and resolution of various elevation data sources.
• Apply LiDAR data processing techniques to remove vegetation and extract ground surfaces.
• Calculate and interpret slope, aspect, and topographic curvature maps.
• Utilize terrain attributes to identify fault scarps and structural lineaments.
• Perform hydrological analysis including watershed delineation and stream network extraction.
• Implement topographic normalization techniques for satellite imagery analysis.
• Assess the risk of landslides and erosion using terrain-based susceptibility models.
• Integrate DEMs into 3D geological modeling and visualization workflows.
• Derive landform classifications using automated geomorphometric algorithms.
• Analyze the relationship between surface topography and subsurface geological structures.
• Use InSAR-derived DEMs to monitor surface deformation and subsidence.
• Formulate a terrain analysis project plan for geoscience or engineering applications.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

Geologists, GIS Specialists, Geomorphologists, Environmental Engineers, and Remote Sensing Analysts.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.