RapidDEM

RapidDEM is a very-high-resolution (VHR) elevation product that European Space Imaging (EUSI) offers with its partner GAF Geospatial GmbH (GAF). It is aimed at users who need current 3D data quickly, for example when elevation data is old or missing.

EUSI collects five VHR stereoscopic satellite images from different viewing angles during a single satellite pass. It supplies them to GAF together with 30 cm resolution imagery that is used as textures on all sides of the model. GAF then builds the 3D model and rush-delivers it to the end user. The models contain both a digital surface model (DSM) and a digital terrain model (DTM), and are delivered in as little as 24 hours after image collection. EUSI's November 2025 brochure lists a 50 cm resolution DSM by GAF. EUSI demonstrates the product with a textured model of Lisbon, Portugal, which GAF produced from a multi-stereo acquisition by EUSI.

The provider names three applications. The first is fresh 3D models of critical areas for GEOINT mission planning and rapid decision-making. The second is construction and infrastructure planning when elevation data is old or missing during site selection. The third is post-event 3D models of landslides, earthquakes or mountainous terrain, delivered in time for response crews to use.