This 3D model of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō's crater was created from thermal images during an overflight of the cone. The deepest portion of the crater is about 320 meters (1050 feet) below the crater floor that existed prior to April 30.
How accurate are elevations generated by the Elevation Point Query Service in The National Map?
The National Map’s Elevation Point Query Service (EPQS) returns elevations that are interpolated from the 3DEP dynamic elevation service. This is a web coverage service (WCS) that includes multiple resolutions of DEMs including 1 meter resolution lidar-based DEMs where available, and 1/3 arc-second seamless DEMs. The accuracy of the elevations returned by EPQS will vary according to the source data for each particular location. The overall accuracy of the elevation service currently has a RMSE (root mean square error) of 0.53 meters. These interpolated point elevations are not official and do not represent precisely measured ground surveyed values.
Elevations derived for a specific location using the Elevation Point Query Service might differ from monumented control elevation values that are published on USGS topographic maps or cited in National Geodetic Survey Marks and Datasheets. Differences between these elevations might exist for features such as mountain peaks or summits, and where the local relief is significant. For most purposes other than engineering, interpolated point elevation values are sufficiently accurate.
The Elevation Point Query Service, the Bulk Point Query Service, and the Spot Elevation widget within The National Map Viewer all query the same dataset and have the same accuracy.
Learn More: The accuracy and consistency of 3D Elevation Program data: A systematic analysis
Related
Why don't the elevations on your maps agree with those provided by my GPS system? Which are correct?
What is a digital elevation model (DEM)?
This 3D model of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō's crater was created from thermal images during an overflight of the cone. The deepest portion of the crater is about 320 meters (1050 feet) below the crater floor that existed prior to April 30.

3D view of USGS_LPC_WY_GrandTetonElkRefuge_2014 data
3D view of USGS_LPC_WY_GrandTetonElkRefuge_2014 data
A USGS benchmark at the USGS National Center.
A USGS benchmark at the USGS National Center.
The National Elevation Dataset (NED) is the primary elevation data product produced and distributed by the USGS National 3D Elevation Program (3DEP). The NED provides seamless raster elevation data of the conterminous United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and the island territories.
The National Elevation Dataset (NED) is the primary elevation data product produced and distributed by the USGS National 3D Elevation Program (3DEP). The NED provides seamless raster elevation data of the conterminous United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and the island territories.
The National Map—New data delivery homepage, advanced viewer, lidar visualization
US Topo Product Standard
Coastal National Elevation Database
The National Map seamless digital elevation model specifications
USGS lidar science strategy—Mapping the technology to the science
Accuracy assessment of the U.S. Geological Survey National Elevation Dataset, and comparison with other large-area elevation datasets: SRTM and ASTER
Related
Why don't the elevations on your maps agree with those provided by my GPS system? Which are correct?
What is a digital elevation model (DEM)?
This 3D model of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō's crater was created from thermal images during an overflight of the cone. The deepest portion of the crater is about 320 meters (1050 feet) below the crater floor that existed prior to April 30.
This 3D model of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō's crater was created from thermal images during an overflight of the cone. The deepest portion of the crater is about 320 meters (1050 feet) below the crater floor that existed prior to April 30.

3D view of USGS_LPC_WY_GrandTetonElkRefuge_2014 data
3D view of USGS_LPC_WY_GrandTetonElkRefuge_2014 data
A USGS benchmark at the USGS National Center.
A USGS benchmark at the USGS National Center.
The National Elevation Dataset (NED) is the primary elevation data product produced and distributed by the USGS National 3D Elevation Program (3DEP). The NED provides seamless raster elevation data of the conterminous United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and the island territories.
The National Elevation Dataset (NED) is the primary elevation data product produced and distributed by the USGS National 3D Elevation Program (3DEP). The NED provides seamless raster elevation data of the conterminous United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and the island territories.