In the case of sigma3D, surveying sometimes means positioning unusual objects in front of the measuring device.
Thanks to artist Ulrich Höhn, who wants to recreate the Gollenstein as realistically as possible on a 1:1 scale, sigma3D has been commissioned to survey this cultural and historical landmark of the Saarland.
Standing 6.6 meters tall, the stone towers over the hilly landscape and has been the focus of extensive research for about 5,000 years in an effort to uncover its significance.
Scientists remain divided to this day on the exact significance of the menhir, though it is associated with prehistoric ancestor worship.
The menhir is located in Blieskastel, and its prominent position on the outskirts of the city has made it a local landmark.
The sigma3D survey team faced the challenge of fully scanning the stone without incurring significant costs or effort—a task made particularly difficult by its height.
Due to the surface accuracy and color fidelity required by the client, it was decided in advance to scan the stone using a terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) and to capture supplementary images with a UAV. The data was then merged, and a 3D model was developed from it.
We’ll share what the replica looks like and what the client has to say about it in the coming months!