A University of Hawaii-Hilo professor is leading a team of surf-ready researchers in 3D mapping some of the most legendary surf breaks to better protect reef systems around the world.
What You Need To Know
UH associate professor of marine science John Burns recently joined Arizona State University professors Haunane Kane and Cliff Kapono in mapping the reef at Kurukuru Mailani — known to surfers as Cloudbreak — home to some of the largest and most challenging waves in the world
Using a technique known as photogrammetry, the team took high-resolution images of the reef and created 3D reconstructions that can be studied to draw a deeper understanding of reef systems
The researchers, experienced surfers all, work out of the nonprofit Multiscale Environmental Graphical Analysis lab in Hilo
The team is considering spots in the South Pacific for their next mapping projects and aims to include local communities into the research
UH associate professor of marine science John Burns recently joined Arizona State University professors Haunane Kane and Cliff Kapono in mapping the reef at Kurukuru Mailani — known to surfers as Cloudbreak — home to some of the largest and most challenging waves in the world.
