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Abstract

Summary

This study evaluates the accuracy of open digital elevation models (DEM) for the territory of Ukraine to assess their applicability for scientific and practical purposes. As a reference, we used a photogrammetric terrain model of Ukraine (Baltic 77) with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.5 m, as well as high-precision geodetic measurements (RMSE 0.05 m) in selected regions.

The analysis showed that the accuracy of DEM models varies depending on the terrain type: in mountainous areas, the RMSE is 2 m, in hilly areas – 0.8 m, and in flat areas – 0.5 m. The SRTM model heights are referenced to the WGS-84 ellipsoid; therefore, the EGM2008 geoid model was applied to convert them to orthometric heights. Histograms were created to compare DEM accuracy across different regions.

The results of our study confirm that open DEMs can be effectively used for urban, environmental, and engineering-geodetic applications in Ukraine. However, decreased accuracy was observed in regions with complex terrain and active urban development. It is proposed to improve DEM accuracy by using GNSS stations from Ukraine’s permanent network as control points.

The findings can contribute to enhancing methods for utilizing open DEMs in geodesy, cartography, and land management.

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/content/papers/10.3997/2214-4609.2025510171
2025-04-14
2026-02-11
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