GEODATABASE
PROJECT  SUMMARY

  Primarily, the research goals at this site focus on accurately interpreting the geologic processes responsible for forming such immense openings.  As more spatial and temporal data are collected from Sistema Zacatón, it becomes critical if not essential to process and manage the data efficiently.  Existing spatial data and field data that has been collected are being integrated into a single GIS, which is used to aid in geologic interpretations of the system. 

  We are constructing a detailed three-dimensional model of the karst features using a variety of mapping methods to create an ultra high-resolution representation of the system's physical geometry.  One type of data, LADAR imagery, has been collected so far, and this is proving to give extremely detailed images of the sinkholes' surface features.  Our team is planning to continue collecting 3D data of Sistema Zacatón, both underwater (SONAR imaging). and in the Earth subsurface (Resistivity Imaging).  By meshing together all of these unique spatial data sets, an unprecedented 3D representation of the deep karst features of Sistema Zacatón will be created.