Photogrammetry is the science of getting precise measurements and three-dimensional data from at least two photographs. This technique can be applied to construct a 3D model of any scene from any source of image, from standard digital cameras to cameras on Earth-orbiting satellites. The 3D models can be analysed to store information on size, volume, shape and morphology of the surveyed areas.

These models were made during the 2016 edition of ESA’s underground astronaut training course CAVES – Cooperative Adventure for Valuing and Exercising human behaviour and performance Skills. 

Photogrammetry could be used by astronauts on the surface of other planets, or even underground such as in the lava tubes of Mars for scientists on Earth.

Follow the underground adventure on Twitter with via @ESA_CAVES, and on the CAVES blog: http://blogs.esa.int/caves.