UAV Survey  

San Cristobal, Galapagos



Accurate surveys are critical to understanding low-lying, flood prone locations. Surprisingly, the Galápagos Islands—one of the most scientifically studied sites in the world—lacks such data. Without a consistent and unified vertical datum, neither tides nor storm surge can be accurately referenced to the land. Our team used UAVs (drones) and GPS/ GNSS site survey equipment to record aerial survey information of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno’s shoreline and ravines. This information will be essential for modeling past and future storm surge, sea-level rise, and tsunami scenarios as it relates to the island’s urban growth and coastal areas.



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The Environmental Modeling Lab (EMLab) is an applied research unit of the Weitzman School of Design’s McHarg Center, specializing in the the analysis, simulation, and visualization of environmental systems.

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Jan, 2024 ︎︎︎
The EMLab recently received funding for its Natural Infrastructure Innovation Project (NIIP) research proposal from USACE’s Engineer and Research and Development Center (ERDC). This multimillion-dollar, multi-year research initiative is a collaborative effort between Auburn University (Co-PI Rob Holmes), the University of Virginia (Co-PI Brian Davis), and UPenn (Co-PI Sean Burkholder, Co-I Keith VanDerSys). Looking specifically at the bays and estuaries of the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, the NIIP will identify and develop novel and innovative forms of coastal infrastructure inspired by nature's complexity, adaptability, and resilience. See more details on the news page.

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For more information, please contact one of the co-directors: Sean Burkholder (seanburk@design.upenn.edu);
Karen M’Closkey (mcloskey@design.upenn.edu); or Keith VanDerSys (kvand@design.upenn.edu)


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