Azores map all nine islands in high resolution with LiDAR
Azores GuidePart of the elevation data and digital models from the 1.5 million euro survey can already be viewed by the public, with about two terabytes more to follow.
The regional government has mapped the entire land area of the nine Azores islands in a single campaign, using aerial photography and LiDAR laser scanning. Environment Secretary Alonso Miguel presented the project, called Açores em Alta Resolução, at the COP31 climate conference in Antalya, Turkey.
The survey was flown in 2024 and coordinated by the Regional Secretariat for Environment and Climate Action. It cost about 1.5 million euros and covered 2,324 square kilometres. It produced 19,216 aerial images with a resolution of about 8.5 centimetres. The LiDAR data reach an average of 15 points per square metre with a vertical accuracy of 10 centimetres, about 38 terabytes in all.
According to the government, the data help identify areas at risk of flooding and landslides and simulate sea level rise and waves overtopping the coast. They can also be used to track the coastline, vegetation and invasive species, and to assess the solar potential of roofs.
On Faial, a detailed three-dimensional survey of the Capelinhos Volcano has been completed. It will be repeated every two years to measure erosion by wind, rain and the sea.
Part of the LiDAR data and digital models are already public, with support from Portugal's Directorate-General for Territory, as are viewing services for the aerial images. About two terabytes of data are due to be released at the end of the process. Alonso Miguel said the government wants the data used by public bodies, municipalities, civil protection, universities, researchers, companies, schools and citizens.
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Azores Guide
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