LASER SCANNING OF CAVES: ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES FOR EXPLORING UNDERGROUND SPACES BASED ON THE EXAMPLES OF MEDOVA CAVE AND MLYNKY CAVE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.30970/vgl.39.06Keywords:
caves, laser scanning, gypsum karst, 3D modelling, geographic information systems, Podillia, Mlynky Cave, Medova Cave, morphological analysis, georeferencingAbstract
This article presents the results of a study of two gypsum karst caves–Mlynky Cave (Ternopil region) and Medova Cave (Lviv region)–which are among the most remarkable speleological sites of the Podillia Upland. The primary goal of the study was to develop accurate 3D digital models of the internal cave structures for spatial analysis, geological interpretation, morphological characterization, and long-term geodynamic monitoring. A combination of terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) using a Leica ScanStation C10 and a handheld mobile laser scanner STONEX X120 GO was employed. This approach enabled detailed data acquisition from both large chambers and narrow, hard-to-access passages. The resulting point clouds were processed using specialized software and integrated into Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with precise global georeferencing via GNSS ground control points (UTM Zone 35).Special attention is given to the methodology of data acquisition, filtering, and point cloud processing, as well as to the construction of high-resolution 3D models. In the case of Mlynky Cave, geological interpretation focused on the Badenian gypsum strata, the role of interstratal karst, and the dominant orientations of tectonic fractures that shape the cave system. The survey of Medova Cave led to its first complete digital mapping, identification of morphological features, and generation of a detailed spatial model for future studies.The research confirms the effectiveness of modern laser scanning technologies for geological mapping of underground voids, their documentation and preservation, and their integration into conservation, scientific, and geotouristic frameworks. The obtained models and analyses provide a foundation for monitoring cave stability, identifying risk-prone areas, and developing virtual geotourism experiences.
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