SEOS: Coral Reefs and 3D Models

The module on coral reefs is one of the 15 modules in de SEOS project, an european initiatiative for using remote sensing in science education curricula in high schools.

Interactive web pages with remote sensing images, animations, educational games and worksheets are guiding 16 to 18 years old pupils through different topics concerning corals and coralreefs. Teachers can use this material in different ways. They can use it for discussions or for interactive work at home or in the classroom.

Using the first chapter, pupils can understand the characteristics of the corals. The second chapter helps them to understand the importance of these treasures of the sea and the third chapter is dealing with the different threats. Coral bleaching, a topic which is nowadays very important for the study of the surface temperature of ocean water, is studied in a separate chapter. Last but not least a final chapter is dedicated to the importance of remote sensing in the study and the conservation of the coral reefs throughout the world.

The module on 3D models is the 10th of 15 modules in de SEOS project that will guide 16 to 18 year old pupils through the amazing 3D world.

Displaying and interpreting topography on 2D documents such as maps and satellite images isn’t alsways easy. In many cases 3D models can be of great help but how can we construct a 3D model out of a flat satellite image?

The module starts with a short introduction in the world of 3D. After that, the basic principles of elementary photogrammetry are explained. These principles like parallax and relief displacement are needed to understand the different 3D applications like fly over, anaglyphs and orthophotos. Images and photographs, games, exercises and worksheets will help the students to get to know how 3D works.