USGS develops workflow for 3D seafloor models from video archives
The US Geological Survey (USGS) has developed a workflow to create 3D models of the deep seafloor using archived video footage from unmanned submersible exploration dives. This innovative process, detailed in the study ‘Photogrammetry of the Deep Seafloor from Archived Unmanned Submersible Exploration Dives’, recently published in the Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, holds significant promise for advancing deep-sea exploration and has applications across various scientific fields.
The study, led by Claudia Flores and Dr Uri ten Brink, showcases a novel approach to seafloor modelling. The team utilized remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to capture images of the Mona Rift seafloor near Puerto Rico, addressing challenges such as poor navigation, inconsistent lighting, colour distortion and camera orientation at depths exceeding 1,000 metres. By refining the ROVs and video equipment, they overcame these obstacles, enabling archived footage to be processed into 3D models within three months.
Broader implications for marine geohazard science
This research also provided educational opportunities. Flores and Dr ten Brink mentored two undergraduate students during the study, teaching them the workflow. The students contributed to the process, later presenting their findings at geological conferences and co-authoring scientific papers.
The photogrammetry workflow demonstrated in this study has broader implications for marine geohazard science. For instance, it was employed in a 2023 study to re-evaluate the cause of the 1918 tsunami in Puerto Rico. Initially attributed to an earthquake-induced submarine landslide, the use of 3D modelling revealed that the landslide scar predated the tsunami, a conclusion further validated by sediment analysis.
Dive footage continues to play a critical role in understanding the ocean and Earth’s processes and assessing hazards. This workflow exemplifies the value of transforming archived video into detailed 3D models, offering new insights into natural hazards and aiding long-term planning efforts.
In essence, photogrammetry – a technique that generates 3D models by integrating multiple video images – captures detailed surface information from various angles, allowing for accurate rendering of virtual maps. This capability enhances geological understanding of the deep sea and provides essential context for studying natural phenomena.
