DRONE TECHNOLOGY AND 3D VISUALIZATION SOFTWARE TO RECREATE IN-FIELD EXPERIENCES IN THE NEWARK BASIN

Drone technology has expanded in use for both private and public sectors, especially within the geosciences. With the unique nature of geosciences often involving fieldwork as a necessary component for education and research, the use of drones has been able to aid in both of these areas. Imagery collected from drones offers a high-resolution view comparable to the orthoimagery currently available (i.e., LIDAR). Structure from Motion photogrammetry programs, such as Agisoft Metashape, Pix4D, etc., convert 2D images to 3D models and can be used to recreate scaled and georeferenced 3D models of areas of interest. Paired with geologic interpretation programs, such as the LIME 3D Visualization and Interpretation software, further temporal and spatial correlations can be made beyond what can normally be done through typical geologic observation. This project focuses on applying these methods to recreate small and large geologic features at an outcrop-level for virtual learning.

A roadcut in Milford, NJ, known as “Pebble Bluff”, was selected for this study because it is currently used in sedimentary geology courses and is a well-documented portion of the Passaic Formation that shows both stratigraphic (Milankovitch influenced strata) and lithologic (alluvium and lacustrine rock types) features (Olsen et al., 1986). By modeling an outcrop that demonstrates fundamental geologic concepts at different scales, this provides both new and old earth science students an accurate experience of being in the field “alongside” the outcrop.

The 3D data developed in this study will be able to act as an instructional aid for both formal and informal education groups that use Pebble Bluff. This information will also allow for greater accessibility to the outcrop for those who cannot physically be there due to financial, social, cultural, mental, or physical limitations. Overall, this technology and instrumentation will provide further support in the understanding of fundamental geologic concepts while also allowing accessibility for all.