Stereo IKONOS Satellite Image Data Utilized to Support 3D Terrain Visualization for Mt. Ararat Anomaly in Turkey

Satellite Imaging Corporation has created a 3D Terrain Model of the Mt. Ararat Anomaly from Stereo IKONOS Satellite Image Data, a mysterious 980 foot long feature located in remote northeastern Turkey, which some researchers believe could be the remains of Noah’s Ark.

In cooperation with GeoEye and INTA Space Turk, Satellite Imaging Corporation has created a 3D representation of the mysterious Mt. Ararat anomaly, located in northeastern Turkey. The creation of the 3D Flythrough movie was made possible with the use of Stereo IKONOS Satellite image data and 5m DEM extracted from the image data.

“This new 3D terrain model will provide researchers with an engaging new perspective, which could help to resolve an intense geopolitical and religious debate as to whether or not the anomaly could prove to be the remains of Noah’s Ark.”

To view 3D Terrain Visual of Mt. Ararat, copy and paste URL;
http://www.satimagingcorp.com/gallery/quicktime-mt-ararat-low.html


The anomaly itself, which lies surrounded by rugged strato-volcanic rock at the northwestern corner of Mt. Ararat’s western plateau, is over 980 feet long, and sits mostly buried underneath a permanent glacier. It first drew attention due to its relatively smooth surface texture, as well as its unusual physical composition. The site occupied by the anomaly, which is located at 15,300 feet above sea level, remains unexplored.

The application of satellite images and aerial photographs for the identification and analysis of historical and archaeological sites, which made this research possible, was first recognized during the early days of aviation. According to David Buehner, production manager at Satellite Imaging Corporation, ‘Satellite and aerial imagery is now available from an array of aircraft and high resolution satellite borne sensors to provide even greater potential for research and investigation of historical discoveries.’

Consequently, remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) have become critical tools for researchers and archaeologists, as these systems link information to precisely calibrated physical locations and integrate information drawn from multiple sources in a rapid, accurate, and quantified manner.

Porcher L. Taylor III, an associate professor at the University of Richmond’s School of Continuing Studies, who has been at the vanguard of using satellites to expose the Ararat Anomaly for researchers provided the following quotes:

‘Thanks to the world-class technology and expertise of GeoEye and Satellite Imaging Corporation (SIC), with this ground-breaking 3D (stereoscopic) Fly through movie, we are witnessing a quantum leap in making the Ararat Anomaly even more transparent for Ararat researchers and the public. Taylor’s research on the Mt. Ararat Anomaly has been featured in a National Geographic Channel documentary.

To the best of my knowledge, to date, only 2D satellite missions had been flown over the Anomaly, not stereo missions. I’m deeply indebted to Leo J. Romeijn, President and CEO of SIC, for making me aware four months ago that INTA Space Turk had August 2004 stereo imagery of the Anomaly site in its archives. Mr. Romeijn graciously accepted my request to create a 3D movie from this imagery, by engaging his stellar SIC team of GIS experts. Likewise, I’m deeply indebted to GeoEye (especially V.P. for Communications and Marketing, Mark E. Brender) for making this stereo project possible. Indeed, GeoEye’s satellite continues to faithfully serve as a space-based Indiana Jones over the Anomaly, and will make the Anomaly almost twice as visible when GeoEye-1 is launched early next year, with 0.4-meter-resolution.’

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