The VAR Lab uses drone systems and aerial mapping to capture large outdoor spaces, document research sites, and create digital 3D records of important locations.

Our work has included scanning more than 40 acres of grape vineyards for Penn State Grape Research Extension and capturing the Lake Erie Land Lighthouse as an interactive 3D model and several more!

Drone-based capture allows us to document spaces from perspectives that are difficult to get from the ground. The resulting images, maps, and 3D models can be used for research, teaching, visualization, and digital preservation.

Projects