HIGH-PRECISION HANDHELD PHOTOGRAMMETRY INTEGRATION FOR NON-INVASIVE PALEONTOLOGICAL AND GEOLOGICAL STUDIES

Geospatial technology continues to bring significant advancements to geological research. One aspect of its advancement for the field is its ability to offer non-invasive, high-precision tools for fieldwork. The application of handheld photogrammetry to create detailed 3D models of paleontological sites, with an emphasis on high-precision accuracy has been accepted in identifying and documenting new species without the need for physical extraction. The equipment used for procuring these models are a Nikon D810 camera with a 22 mm lens and scale bars calibrated to the hundredth of a millimeter, provided by the National Parks Service. The integration of ground control points by utilizing targets on the scale bars enhances the spatial data collection process, and offers comprehensive and precise geological mapping.

These models have proven to be reliable in identifying new species, demonstrating the potential of photogrammetry as a non-invasive alternative in paleontological research. Notable applications include studies conducted at Grand Canyon - Parashant National Monument where a trace-fossil covered rock was located and Mammoth Cave National Park which resulted in a new species of shark. Photogrammetry is effectively used for various geological applications, such as cave exploration, submerged resource documentation, and coral reef monitoring. Additionally, photogrammetry offers a valuable tool for change detection in fossils and rocks. For example, tracking the weathering and theft of petrified trees in various National Parks.

The integration of handheld photogrammetry technology presents a significant advancement in geological research, offering precise, non-invasive methods for field studies. Future research will explore further applications in cave photogrammetry, submerged resources, and environmental change detection, underscoring the broad potential and interdisciplinary impact of these technologies.