3D Terrain
3D Terrain is the cornerstone of many industries from computer games, flight and military simulation, 3D GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and even Internet geographic infotainment like Google Earth and Linden Labs' Second Life.
From a technical standpoint, 3D Terrain is usually made in one of three ways -- from existing terrain map data (contour maps, usually), by direct acquisition (LIDAR or RADAR scanning of the terrain by terrestrial scanners, aircraft or satellites) or by artistic creation using terrain sculpting or modeling tools. 3D Terrain can also be obtained already in a digital form as DEMs/DTMs (Digital Elevation Models or Digital Terrain Models) in either regularly sampled raster/grid or TIN (Triangulated Irregular Network) form.
Once created, 3D Terrain models can be displayed in a variety of ways as 2D contour or relief maps, or more compellingly, from any number of viewpoints as true 3D environments. 3D Landscapes of this type can feature a variety of presentations including photorealistic natural appearances or informational displays created by draping maps or other data onto the surface. Finally, these 3D environments can also include non-terrain features such as buildings, vehicles, bridges and other structures, vegetation/grass/trees, clouds, and even people and animals. Additionally, with a 3D terrain model, specialized analysis tools are able to evaluate line-of-sight potential for visual (viewshed) and radio wave propagation.
The most popular use for 3D Terrain models is realistic terrain visualization. As computers become more and more powerful, the capabilities of 3D Terrain Visualization tools like 3D Nature's Visual Nature Studio become more and more powerful and available to users in diverse industries. Professionals involved in Land Planning, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, Cartography, Forestry and Resource Management, Historical and Archaeological Recreation and Golf Course Design are all expanding the limits of what can be done with 3D Terrain visualization.
