Using 3D laser scanning

From the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS):

Using 3D laser scanning to make repeat measurements of an area affected by the M6.0 2014 South Napa earthquake, USGS scientists were able to to define surface deformation in great detail. The recent revolution in 3D laser measurement technology (lidar) allows scientists to collect detailed information with unprecedented accuracy. These measurement techniques provide new understanding of how earthquakes can affect the shape of the Earth’s surface. The technical article about this work was published in the journal "Geosphere.” http://geosphere.gsapubs.org/content/11/6/2015.full.pdf

Photo caption: Two USGS interns working with a laser scanner in Napa, Calif. The surface rupture from the August 24, 2014 South Napa earthquake can be seen behind them and extending across the field. USGS photo by Stephen DeLong.