Geospatial Analysis Laboratory
GAL is an interdisciplinary laboratory at the Department of Geography, University of Zadar. Its basic aim is to implement scientific research, educate junior scientists, and apply new, modern knowledge and technology in developing new research methods. Performing and advancing scientific research within GAL is based on the application of geospatial analyses from the GIS and RS domains.
GAL is equipped with the most up-to-date devices and accompanying software, while training the research team. Geospatial analysis relates to applying technical and procedural methods for the purposes of processing and interpreting gathered spatial data, with the aim of identifying new information on the object being studied. In this, a key role is played by devices designed for information-gathering (a terrestrial laser scanner, 3D scanner, airborne LiDAR, unmanned aerial vehicle, and multispectral and thermal cameras), which allow scientific research to be carried out regardless of the surface under investigation (micro-meso-macro), or the required precision.
The use of GIS in combination with RS technology (unmanned aerial vehicle, 3D scanner, LiDAR, infrared camera, thermal camera, etc.) facilitates the study of certain processes or phenomena at close range, while their characteristics are measurable, i.e. can be described quantitatively. The importance of quantitative analyses lies in their precision and comparability, but their potential application in Croatia in geomorphology, the management of protected areas, archaeology, and agronomy has not been sufficiently researched.