Solid Terrain Modeling (STM) Uses a Revolutionary Mapping and Modeling Manufacturing Technology and an Innovative GIS Physical Image Transfer Process to Provide a New 3-D Perspective of Afghanistan and Our World

WASHINGTON, D.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 10, 2001-- National Geographic today unveiled a first-of-its kind 8' x 8' 3-D solid terrain model of Afghanistan for public display at Explorers Hall, the museum of the National Geographic Society, located at its Washington, D.C., headquarters.

National Geographic, WorldSat Inc., and Solid Terrain Modeling Inc. (STM) collaborated to create the unique model, which features the terrain of Afghanistan, much of Pakistan, and portions of the surrounding countries. The model is part of a new collection of STM models on display at Explorers Hall.

The result of the collaboration is the first 3-D model to combine a precise topographic rendering of Afghanistan with an exact high-resolution color satellite image superimposed accurately upon its surface. It dramatically portrays the rugged geography of the Afghanistan region, including the snow-capped peaks of the Hindu Kush mountains in the north, the southern desert areas, and the Indus Valley in Pakistan. The vivid imagery and absolute realism give viewers an unparalleled understanding of the topography and geographic features of this global region.

"While computer imaging and print maps play crucial roles in understanding geography, the 3-D solid terrain model is an amazing visualization, interpretive and educational tool for people to better appreciate the scale, distance, terrain, points of view, and sight lines of a place immediately," said Bill Stoehr, President of National Geographic Maps. "The Afghanistan model is especially dramatic and breathtaking. It will engage our visitors and allow them to better understand this little-known part of the world. We are delighted to work with the best in the business to bring the advanced technology of STM models to Explorers Hall and our international NGS networks."

"Models from STM bring the texture of our planet alive like no other models, maps or geographic education tools. Fine topographic details are preserved and better visual cues allow for a deeper understanding of the terrain information presented," said Lawrence Faulkner, Founder and President of STM. "The Afghanistan model and the other large STM models displayed in Explorers Hall give viewers a new perspective about the physical world and the impact that geographic knowledge and understanding has on our lives. STM looks forward to further collaboration with NGS on the global commercialization of its technology."

The Afghanistan, and other STM models, including the Chesapeake Bay and Mount Everest, are now on public display at Explorers Hall, located at 1145 17th Street, NW, Washington, D.C. Explorers Hall features numerous geographic exhibits and is open and free to the public Mondays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. For information on current exhibits, or details on the NGS/STM solid terrain model display, the public should call 202/857-7588.

Founded in 1888, the National Geographic Society is one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations in the world. It reaches nearly 200 million people each month through its four magazines, the National Geographic Channel, books, videos, exhibits, maps, and interactive media. The Society has funded more than 7,000 scientific research projects and supports an education program that promotes geographic literacy. For more information log onto nationalgeographic.com, AOL Keyword: NatGeo.

STM is based in Fillmore, Calif., and its models are already in use with the United States Department of Defense, Federal, state and municipal agencies, law firms, emergency response groups, land management offices (construction, civil engineering, real estate and recreational) and developers, transportation agencies, utilities (oil, gas, and hydro) and architects, etc. For more information about STM's 3-D solid terrain models, and its patent-pending manufacturing process, log onto www.stm-usa.com.

     National Geographic
     Carol Seitz, 202/828-6678
        or
     Solid Terrain Modeling
     Tony Culley-Foster, 703/471-1661