The adequate topographical representation of the Earth's surface is of high importance for local-level geoscientific applications, such as watershed management, communication systems siting, and terrain modelling. Also Mineral exploration is now moving into remote areas of the world where the exploration crews require geo spatial data of high level of detail.

The advent of high resolution charged couple devices (CCD) and streeable capability of sensors on board the satellites has made it possible to acquire overlapping stereo-images necessary for restitution of 3D image scenes.

In the last two decades people have tried using satellite stereo data for generation of DEM’s with Satellite Photogrammetric approach. Some satellites are capable of acquiring stereo data using across track approach e.g., SPOT, IRS –1C/1D etc. and some others can acquire stereo data using both across and along track, from two different orbits e.g. IKONOS, QUIKBIRD etc. Advanced satellites such as the Indian Cartosat aims to provide data with higher resolution for cartographic purpose. Cartosat1 with stereo mission having twin cameras (Fore & Aft) with 2.5 meter resolution while Cartosat2 is a high resolution satellite having single imaging sensor capable of around 1 meter resolution.

The availability of these high-resolution satellites makes it possible to image remote areas in stereo. When viewed in 3-D mapping software these stereo images can be used to produce topographic maps useful for Geo Scientific application including mineral exploration and drilling programs.